EASA SIB 2021-16R1: Operations to aerodromes located in United States with potential risk of interference from 5G ground stations

What to do

Aircraft operators with flights to the United States should closely monitor FAA publications such as ADs, NOTAMs, and AIPs for any prohibitions or limitations on instrument approach procedures linked to radio altimeter configurations. Operators must be prepared for possible operational impacts starting July 2023 when FAA AD 2023-10-02 takes effect and ensure compliance with any U.S. airspace-specific requirements. No mandatory actions are imposed by EASA at this time.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2021-16R1 is an informational document addressing the potential risk of interference from 5G ground stations on radio altimeters during operations to aerodromes located in the United States. It highlights concerns primarily related to aircraft operating in contiguous U.S. airspace and references FAA Airworthiness Directives affecting transport, commuter airplanes, and various helicopters. The bulletin does not mandate any new requirements for EASA-registered aircraft but provides guidance on the evolving situation.

What changed

This revision updates the original SIB 2021-16 by incorporating the FAA's latest Airworthiness Directive 2023-10-02, which supersedes earlier FAA ADs 2021-23-12 and introduces new operational limitations for affected aircraft in contiguous U.S. airspace. It removes previous recommendations no longer relevant and clarifies that EASA will not adopt the FAA ADs but will continue monitoring the situation.

Why it matters

The bulletin informs aviation professionals about the ongoing safety concerns related to 5G C-band emissions potentially interfering with aircraft radio altimeters, which could impact approach and landing procedures in the U.S. This affects operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams by highlighting the need to stay updated on FAA directives and NOTAMs that may impose operational restrictions or require alternative compliance methods.