FAA lists 50 airports that will have 5G buffer zones ahead of C-band expansion

With AT&T and Verizon to go live its 5G expansion Jan. 19, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has chosen 50 airports (PDF) that will have buffer zones to help prevent flight disruptions (via Reuters and The Wall Street Journal). Security regulators choose airports based on location, traffic volume and the potential for reduced visibility - all factors that can increase cancellations, delays and diversions as both carriers roll out 5G C-band service.

As reported by the Wall Street Journal, particularly busy airports such as Chicago O'Hare, Orlando International, Los Angeles International and Dallas/Fort Worth International are included in the list, as well as airports in locations that are often foggy. circumstances, such as Seattle/Tacoma International and San Francisco International.

The FAA notes that AT&T and Verizon have agreed to shut down their 5G transmitters in these specific buffer zones for six months, which "should allow 5G transmissions with sensitive aircraft equipment used in low-visibility landings." strengthen it." Interference should be minimized." Some airports – including major hubs such as Hartsfield/Jackson International and Denver International – did not make the list, either because they are not locations where 5G C-band deployment will take place, Or they do not allow low-visibility landing. Can give,

AT&T and Verizon are eager to deploy their improved 5G service, as they spent a combined $70 billion last year to acquire a share of C-band spectrum, which provides 5G speeds and coverage . It should offer a middle ground in terms of connectivity - something that both carriers' 5G service is currently lacking. Both currently offer 5G service using super-fast high-band millimeter wave technology that covers only small areas as well as low-band spectrum, which provides much greater coverage with slower service, similar to 4G LTE. does. Is. T-Mobile already offers mid-band 5G service, but it's not in the C-band range.

Verizon and AT&T were both originally set to switch to their 5G expansion on December 5, but air security fears delayed the launch twice. The carrier declined the FAA's request to delay the rollout until January 5, but later came to an agreement to resume service on January 19, giving the FAA additional time for potential flight disruptions.