FAA clears more aircraft for low-visibility landings at airports with 5G C-band
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued new approvals on January 19, 2022 allowing an estimated 62% of US commercial aircraft to perform low-visibility landings at airports where 5G-C communications technology has been deployed.
The administration had also cleared more airports for aircraft with approved altimeters to perform low-visibility landings.
The FAA, however, has made it clear that some airports may still be affected even with the new approvals, and advised passengers to check with their airlines for the most updated flight schedules.
The FAA also said that it is continuing to work with aircraft manufacturers to better understand how radar altimeter data is used in other flight control systems.
"We recognize the economic importance of expanding 5G, and we appreciate the wireless companies working with us to protect the flying public and the country’s supply chain,” US transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement.
“The complex U.S. airspace leads the world in safety because of our high standards for aviation, and we will maintain this commitment as wireless companies deploy 5G."
Aircraft models with one of the five cleared altimeters include some Boeing 717, 737, 747, 757, 767, 777, MD-10/-11 and Airbus A300, A310, A319, A320, A330, A340, A350 and A380 models.
On January 19, 2022, a number of international airlines, including Emirates, Air India, Japan Airlines and ANA All Nippon Airways announced the suspension of some US flights over the 5G rollout. Japan Airlines and ANA All Nippon Airways said in separate statements that Boeing had advised them that 5G signals “may interfere with the radio wave altimeter installed on the Boeing 777.”
A complete list of commercial airports with low-visibility approaches in 5G deployment can be seen here.
Rolls-Royce developing technology to extend range of hybrid-electric aircraft
Rolls-Royce is currently developing turbogenerators in order to extend the range of hybrid-electric aircraft....
ATR completes first flight of 100% SAF-powered regional aircraft
ATR completed the first flight of a regional aircraft using 100% sustainable aviation fuel....
China’s TP500 cargo drone conducts maiden flight
One of China’s first unmanned aircraft vehicles (UAV), the TP500, has completed a successful maiden flight. ...
More screens, more data: How the pandemic is shaping in-flight entertainment
AeroTime speaks to Inmarsat and Panasonic about post-pandemic inflight entertainment and connectivity trends ...