If you came here with hopes that Airlines will have access to faster internet speeds for inflight entertainment, I hate to burst your bubble…
Flying has already been a huge pain in the you-know-what. With the introduction of COVID regulations and cancelled flights, flying has become increasingly stressful.
So what does 5G have to do with this?
Over the past few weeks, flights have been canceled in the United States due to concerns over the rollout of 5G close to airports. Airlines are showing concern and the Federal aviation Administration (FAA) is also critical of this move.
What is 5G?
5G is the 5th generation mobile network. It is a new global wireless standard after 1G, 2G, 3G, and 4G networks. 5G enables a new kind of network that is designed to connect virtually everyone and everything together including machines, objects, and devices. Network of radio frequencies that will be used for 5G operates at a frequency range between 3.7GHz and 3.98GHz, known as C-Band.
5G wireless technology is meant to deliver higher multi-Gbps peak data speeds, ultra low latency, more reliability, massive network capacity, increased availability, and a more uniform user experience to more users. Higher performance and improved efficiency empower new user experiences and connect new industries.
What’s the issue?
Since the proposed 5G deployment involves a new combination of power levels, frequencies, proximity to flight operations, and other factors, the FAA has imposed restrictions on flight operations using certain types of radio altimeter equipment close to antennas in 5G networks.
These safety restrictions could affect flight schedules and operations. The FAA claims to be continually working every day to reduce effects of this disruption as they make progress to safely integrate 5G and aviation.
What about other countries?
Deployments of 5G technology in other countries often involve different conditions than those proposed for the U.S., including:
- Lower power levels
- Antennas adjusted to reduce potential interference to flights
- Different placement of antennas relative to airfields
- Frequencies with a different proximity to frequencies used by aviation equipment
Could Smartpolis help?
Smartpolis not only helps with managing 5G related projects but can also assist with alerting and news updates. Municipalities can leverage Smartpolis to assist with the management, maintenance and constructions of these projects. Further, the mobile app and citizen dashboard can provide constant updates which include flight cancellations and updates on regulatory investigations. This issue with 5G is something everyone should be aware of. Arguably the best way forward is through pristine management and total transparency.
