US aviation officials reported progress Friday on allowing more 5G service near airports following negotiations with telecommunications providers, but airlines said there were still some disruptions.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) praised Verizon and AT&T for providing “more precise data about the exact location of wireless transmitters,” the agency said in a statement.
The data has permitted the FAA to narrow the territory where it still has safety questions and “enable the wireless providers to safely turn on more towers as they deploy new 5G service in major markets across the United States,” the regulator said.
Telecom firms have spent tens of billions of dollars to obtain 5G licenses, but were forced to delay the launch following an outcry from the aviation industry warning of massive disruptions.
At issue is the possibility 5G signals will interfere with radio altimeters that allow aircraft to conduct low-visibility landings.
While there is much work still to be done, the ongoing collaboration between the FAA, the aviation industry and the telecom companies is helping to safely reduce air travel and shipping disruptions as additional 5G towers are activated,” Airlines for America said.
JetBlue Chief Executive Robin Hayes said Thursday a “very low percentage” of its flights are affected by current restrictions relating to 5G.
“The big crisis was averted,” Hayes said on a conference call with analysts, but added that the aviation issues related to the 5G ramp-up are “iterative” and there could be other impacts down the road.
AT&T and Verizon referred questions to CTIA, another Washington lobby, which praised the FAA’s latest statement. This is a positive development that highlights the considerable progress the wireless industry, aviation industry, FAA and FCC are making to ensure robust 5G service and safe flights,” CTIA said.
Source: eNCA
In other news – Thembi Seete stuns on True Love magazine cover
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The actress wore an all-white outfit at the launching of the cover and she was surrounded by friends and supporters at the event. Learn more
