The fifth generation of mobile networks, or 5G, is said to be much faster than the fourth generation, or 4G. The internet speed will be ten times faster, and the latency will be reduced by ten times to one millisecond (1000th of a second). Latency refers to the time it takes to send data from one device to another. 5G is the foundation for emerging technologies such as virtual reality, self-driving cars, goods-delivery drones, robotic surgery, telemedicine, and so on. It is impossible to imagine the future without it.
With the launch of 5G network services in the United States on Wednesday, airlines from a variety of countries began canceling flights. There are concerns that 5G will cause problems with plane landings. As an immediate solution, telecom companies decided to establish a buffer zone near the airport and suspend services. What is the connection between 5G and flights, and what are the risks?
Comprehend the danger as described.
For 5G internet services in the United States, the frequency range of C-band 3.70 to 3.98 GHz is used.
The communication system of much airline equipment operates at a frequency of 4.20 to 4.40 GHz, i.e. around this frequency. Companies are concerned that the two frequencies will interfere with one another.
Businesses have been concerned about the impact of 5G on aircraft altimeters, other sensitive equipment, and visibility.
They claim it will be difficult for them to recognize flight altitudes, altimeter readings, automatic landings, wind currents, dangers, and so on.
Fog, bad weather, and thick clouds will exacerbate the difficulties.
Why aren’t there 5G networks in 40 countries?
AT&T and Verizon in the United States have both denied the allegations. According to reports, 40 countries have 5G services. There were no such issues. In response, the airlines provided more information about the differences in 5G communication frequencies and aircraft in these countries. The telecom companies rejected this argument. The situation has deteriorated to the point where US Vise President Joe Biden has been asked to intervene.
Finding a solution will take several months.
Airlines have provided the US government with a list of 50 airports that they believe are dangerous. For the time being, local telecommunications companies have halted 5G deployment. This has given airlines more time to recover and find a solution. Several departments, telecommunications companies, and airlines are negotiating a solution with the US government. However, it is possible that a settlement will take several months.
India’s impact and situation
There are plans to launch a 5G network in more than 15 Indian cities. However, there has been no auction of spectrum. Spectrum was sold in the United States for Rs. 6 lakh crore. In such a case, the government wishes to maximize financial resources. No airline has expressed concern about 5G’s resemblance to a US-style threat. When 3G and 4G were introduced, the Army and Prasar Bharati raised concerns, which were resolved by TRAI and the Telecom Department. If there are any objections to 5G, solutions will be found.
Flights will not be impacted by 5G, according to Trai.
According to the telecom regulator, the launch of 5G services in India will have no impact on aircraft operations.
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