UPDATE Of the 1,462 orders from the FAA that limit flight operations across the U.S. from possible 5G interference, at least one is bound to get attention. Starting January 19 when 5G C-band is turned on, Bloomberg News reports, routine helicopter flights may no longer be permitted.
The FAA restrictions originally included air ambulances, but U.S. medevac operators were granted exemptions on Thursday allowing most emergency flights to continue, according to Bloomberg Law, as the FAA approved a petition for a two-year waiver sought in October by the Helicopter Association International trade group.
U.S. regulations require helicopters to use radar altimeters, especially in landings that are remote or in areas that are otherwise dangerous. Unlike commercial aircraft that follow prescribed flight lines and land in relatively few airports, helicopters operate closer to the ground nearer to cell towers and can land anywhere, making it harder to isolate them from 5G in the C-band.
The record number of restrictions, known as Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), were released by the agency at midnight on Thursday that detailed new prohibitions. Industry observers said it is one of the largest issuings of NOTAMs on record and are being handed out to roughly two dozen large airports as well as regions slated to host upcoming 5G services.
Sharpe Smith, Inside Towers Technology Editor
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