Just 36 hours before AT&T and Verizon deploy their 5G wireless technology, every major U.S. airline and cargo CEO called for the government to keep 5G stations turned off if they’re within two miles of major airports, warning that “immediate intervention is needed to avoid significant operational disruption to air passengers, shippers, supply chain and delivery of needed medical supplies.”
Altimeters provide precise attitude readings for pilots when they land in poor visibility. As a result, the FAA will prohibit pilots from using altimeters during landing at over 80 airports near 5G sites, including large airport hubs.
Airline CEOs warn, “the vast majority of the traveling and shipping public will essentially be grounded. Facing cancellations, diversions, or delays.”
The cellphone industry insists that the technology has proven safe in Europe and will turn down power near some airports.
High-speed 5G internet uses so-called C-band frequencies close to those used by aircraft to measure their altitude. Airline executives said in a letter reported by REUTERS that aircraft manufacturers had informed them in recent weeks that the measures promised by Verizon and AT&T were not enough to prevent interference with aircraft sensors. As a result, they asked that 5G technology not be activated within two miles of 50 major airports.
Spokespeople for AT&T and Verizon declined to comment.
