EASA SIB 2024-01R1: WITHDRAWN — RECOMMENDATIONS NOT COMMENSURATE WITH SPECTRUM MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS

What to do

Operators providing MCA services should install Network Controller Units (NCUs) to block transmissions in the 3.6 GHz band. They must ensure strict compliance with relevant air operations regulations concerning Portable Electronic Devices and adhere to technical parameters defined in Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2022/2324. No mandatory compliance deadlines are specified, as the recommendations are informational.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2024-01R1 is a revised bulletin addressing the use of Mobile Communication on Aircraft (MCA) services, specifically focusing on the operation of 5G-capable Transmitting Portable Electronic Devices (T-PEDs) on aircraft operating in EU airspace. It applies to aircraft operators offering MCA services and updates recommendations to include non-commercial air operations with complex aeroplanes. The bulletin highlights frequency bands authorized for use and concerns about interference with aircraft radio altimeters.

What changed

This revision updates the original EASA SIB 2024-01 by adding recommendations for non-commercial air operations involving complex aeroplanes and clarifies the prevention of transmissions in the 3.6 GHz frequency band to avoid interference with radio altimeters. It also reiterates that the safety concerns do not currently warrant mandatory Airworthiness Directive or operational directive actions.

Why it matters

The bulletin informs aviation professionals about the safe use of 5G technology on aircraft, emphasizing the need to prevent interference with critical avionics such as radio altimeters. Operators and compliance teams must understand these recommendations to maintain safe operations and regulatory compliance when offering MCA services. It ensures that the integration of new mobile communication technologies does not compromise aircraft safety or airworthiness standards.