New Street: FAA, FCC C-Band Standoff “Abating”

By Leslie Stimson, Inside Towers Washington Bureau Chief

New Street Research telecom analysts believe recent statements by the FCC and FAA give them more confidence that carriers will begin transmitting 5G on C-band in January. New Street Policy Advisor Blair Levin said in a client note that analysts interpret last week’s FAA statements as the agency “stepping away from the threat of a broad shutdown of flights” once AT&T and Verizon begin 5G operations. Inside Towers reported the FAA said it believes 5G and aviation “will safely co-exist.” It issued two airworthiness directives to gather more information to avoid potential effects on aviation safety equipment. The FAA also noted that it’s working with the FCC and wireless companies, and they’ve “made progress toward safely implementing the 5G expansion.” Continue Reading