FAA Selects Airports for 5G Buffer Zones

The Federal Aviation Administration picked dozens of airports that would get buffer zones to help avoid expected flight disruptions once a new 5G wireless service goes live in Jan 2022. The 50 airports include hubs for major US passenger airlines such as Chicago’s O’Hare International and Dallas Love Field. They also include airports prone to fog and clouds, like San Francisco International and Seattle-Tacoma International. The FAA, which manages U.S. civilian airspace, also has been preparing to issue flight restrictions to address its concerns that the new 5G service slated to go live Jan. 19 could possibly interfere with aircraft safety systems near airports. The flight limits could lead to some cancellations and delays in bad weather. The buffer-zone locations are also slated for cargo hubs like airports in Indianapolis. Northern New Jersey’s Teterboro, a hub for private jets, made the cut, in addition to the major New York City airports. In selecting airports, the agency considered factors such as their traffic volumes, locations and number of days with low visibility. The agency continues to work with aerospace manufacturers and wireless companies “to make sure 5G is safely deployed and to limit the risk of flight disruptions at all airports.”