US aviation regulator the FAA has identified potential air safety issues with a new band of 5G mobile technology being rolled out later this year. It issued a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin for airlines and other regulators that ‘action might be required to address potential interference with sensitive aircraft electronics.’
The new 5G tech can disrupt signals used by altimeters, which measure aircraft altitude. It also assists landing when visibility is low and as anti-collision warnings.
The FAA bulletin requests passengers’ 5G devices are switched to airlane mode or turned off for the duration of the flight.
The FAA added it is working with other agencies to find a solution to allow the 5G band to operate safely during flights.
