5G signals could interfere with airplane safety systems that also use wireless technology, according to the FAA. Consequently, airline utilities, such as weather detection and crash prevention, could malfunction.
An picture taken on February 18, 2019 shows the 5G wireless technology logo displayed on a tablet in Paris. Companies are awarding up to seven-figure rewards to ethical hackers who can successfully attack their cybersecurity systems as the number of online gadgets surges, and super-fast 5G connections roll out.
As per the article of PhoneArena, the FAA has already begun drafting a warning to pilots about the potential interference of 5G signals with cockpit safety systems.
FAA: 5G Signal Could Interfere Airplane Safety System
FAA specifically noted that the new frequencies of the mid-band 5G signals, which are due to begin rolling out in December, could cause automated features in airplanes to malfunction.
The new frequency range of the mid-bands 5G signals is between 3.7 GHz and 4.2 GHz, according to some former and current government and aviation officials.
In addition to mentioning the specific automated features that the new 5G signals from their wireless transmitters from the ground could seriously interfere with, the FAA plans to issue a warning to pilots.
The FAA went on to reveal that the cockpit systems of airplanes are packed with several critical features that ensure the safety of passengers. The program also includes tools for detecting poor weather and preventing collisions and crashes.
Furthermore, if these features do not work due to serious interference, there could be frustrating delays due to diversions to avoid the cellular towers.
Airplane Smartphone Use
However, in accordance to the article by FoxBusiness, the new memo that will be distributed to pilots would not expand to consumers. Due to this, the FAA will not impose any mandate on airplane passengers using their 5G smartphones.
Consumers are already prohibited from using their smartphones during landings or flights. There is a “potential for ground network interference.”
Nonetheless, passengers of airplanes are encouraged to send their messages from their smartphones using messaging apps that connect to the Wi-Fi network. Cellular signals usually cause interference on planes.
PhoneArena also noted in the same report that popular messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, WeChat, and Apple’s iMessage are recommended for airplane passengers due to their Wi-Fi connectivity.
More than that, numerous airlines already offer their Wi-Fi services to encourage their customers to ditch their cellular devices. These include Delta Airlines, Alaska Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Southwest Airlines.