Airlines resume US operations as 5G rollout delayed around key airports

• January 23, 2022
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Key international airlines to resume US operations

International airlines are set to resume wide-body jet operations to and from key US airports, following the delayed rollout of new 5G networks and the lifting of some restrictions by the US Federal Aviation Administration. Due to the high spectrum of 5G bandwidth, there is a risk of interference with on-board aircraft navigation systems citing international airlines to suspended operations into American airports.

In a statement Emirates said, “As a result of telecommunication operators delaying the roll-out of 5G networks around US airports, the US Federal Aviation Administration and Boeing have issued formal notifications that lift the previous restriction on aircraft operations, enabling Emirates to safely restore full scheduled operations to all its US destinations by Saturday”.

Emirates president Sir Tim Clark added, “We apologize for the inconvenience caused to our customers by the temporary suspension of flights to some of our US destinations. Safety will always be our top priority, and we will never gamble on this front.”

“We welcome the latest development which enables us to resume essential transport links to the US to serve travellers and cargo shippers. However, we are also very aware that this is a temporary reprieve, and a long-term resolution would be required. Emirates will continue to work closely with the aircraft manufacturers and relevant regulators to ensure the safety and continuity of our services.”

“We’d like to thank our customers for their patience and understanding, and express appreciation to our teams and partners who have worked round the clock to minimise impact on customers and help us return to service quickly.”

Verizon has also released a statement confirming that it had “voluntarily decided to limit our 5G network around airports”, adding that “The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and our nation’s airlines have not been able to fully resolve navigating 5G around airports, despite it being safe and fully operational in more than 40 other countries”.

Airplane models with one of the five cleared altimeters include some Boeing 717, 737, 747, 757, 767, 777, MD-10/-11 and Airbus A300, A310, A319, A320, A330, A340, A350 and A380 models.

United Airlines have also welcomed the move and stated that “While we anticipate minor disruptions at some airports due to the remaining 5G restrictions, we’re pleased the Biden Administration reached a compromise with AT&T and Verizon to avoid mass cancellations across the aviation industry”.

Delta Airlines said, “We appreciate the decision to limit the rollout of this service near airports. We believe industries can grow, innovate and co-exist for the benefit of consumers. That’s why we’re continuing to work with the FAA, the FCC and the telecom industry to find a practical solution that will allow for the rollout of 5G technology while preserving safety and avoiding flight disruptions.”