The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will consider proposed rules to expand spectrum access for uncrewed aircraft communications, counter-drone detection and in-flight connectivity at its 19 November meeting.
The proposals include opening the 450 MHz band to safety-related data links between ground stations and crewed and uncrewed aircraft, replacing site-specific licensing rules with a nationwide system.
The FCC will also consider allowing ground-based radar systems to use the 24.45–24.65 GHz band to detect and track unauthorised or dangerous drones near airports, borders, prisons, stadiums and critical infrastructure. The proposed rules would require systems to protect other users with priority access to the band.
A separate proposal would update rules for the 800 MHz air-ground band to support broadband connectivity for aircraft. The FCC will also consider expanding low-Earth orbit satellite connectivity for mobile users, including drones, across the 28.35–28.6 GHz band.
The proposals remain subject to a vote by the full Commission.
For more information
https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-modernize-rules-american-drone-dominance
Image: Gasparilla Bowl 2024, 20 December 2024. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Lauren Cobin)
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