Aviation Altimeters and 5G – the Most Important Questions

Coexistence between different technologies has long been the foundation of sound management of the radio spectrum, ensuring that citizens derive the maximum benefit from this resource. In this report, we examine some of the most critical questions regarding 5G and aviation altimeters, as well as how they have been addressed.

Today, live 5G networks in over 90 countries use spectrum in the 3.3-4.2 GHz range (specifically, the 3.5 GHz band). So far, more than 60% of 5G network launches have used this band, totalling around 260 networks, and further auction plans are expected in the years to come.

In late 2021 to early 2022, global concern was raised that aircraft altimeters authorised to use the 4.2-4.4 GHz band would be impacted by 5G networks operating in the 3.5 GHz range. Since then, collaboration between the aviation and mobile industries has been underway to achieve improvements in radio altimeter equipment, supporting the removal of temporary restrictive measures in the limited number of countries that implemented them.

So, does 5G affect altimeters?

There have been no reported instances of interference from 5G to radio altimeters. This has been further reinforced by the fact that even in high-density aviation markets such as Europe, Japan, and South Korea, where 5G base stations are deployed extremely close to airports, regulators have confirmed no harmful interference.

Download the report, and find out about some of the most important questions with regards to 5G and aviation altimeters, and how they can be addressed.

Also, learn more about 5G spectrum here.