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• Boeing’s 737s could be affected by 5G, except its 200 and 200-c series
• 5G technology could cause interference with radio altimeters at airports
U.S. Federation Aviation Administration on Wednesday warned that radio altimeters in most Boeing 737 aircraft could be affected by 5G wireless operations.
According to FAA’s directive, Boeing’s 737s could be affected, except its 200 and 200-c series.
It added that their "radio altimeters cannot be relied upon to perform their intended function if they experience interference from wireless broadband operations in the 3.7-3.98 GHz frequency band (5G C-Band)."
The regulators had determined that "during approach, landings, and go-arounds, as a result of this interference, certain airplane systems may not properly function," the FAA said in the notice.
That would result in "increased lightcrew workload while on approach with the flight director, autothrottle, or autopilot engaged, which could result in reduced ability of the flight crew to maintain safe flight and landing of the airplane," it said.
5G technology could cause interference with radio altimeters at airports which are used to give data for bad-weather landings.
The FAA had earlier warned that the interference from 5G could impact low-visibility operations as it could affect airplane instruments such as altimeters.
A Boeing spokesman said, "We support the Airworthiness Directive, as it mandates the same guidance that Boeing provided to operators back in January."
Telecom networks are rolling out 5G systems near airports. The Federal Communications Commission and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has also been working on the matter.
AT&T Inc (NYSE: T) and Verizon Communications Inc (NYSE: VZ) had announced to delay deployment of 5G service at towers near some U.S. airports after several airlines raised the issue that flights will be severely impacted due to 5G.
Picture Credits: Reuters