FCC answers aviation groups' call to protect GPS
February 2, 2011, 05:20 pm
Less than two weeks following the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association's letter asking the Federal Communications Commission to consider the impact the expansion of mobile satellite bandwidth could have on GPS, the FCC has halted the satellite approval until they can ensure GPS will remain uninterrupted, according to the AOPA.
The concerns, which were echoed by the Federal Aviation Administration, arose due to a company's request to create more mobile satellites that would extend its ability to provide broadband service to users. However, these types of satellites have the potential to interfere with GPS, which is a major aspect of the new NextGen air transportation system developed by the FAA.
The FCC says the company has accepted "as a condition of the grant of its request, the creation of a process to address interference concerns regarding GPS and, further, that this process must be completed to the Commission's satisfaction" before it can begin to offer services. The company must report on the process by February 25 and work "rigorous[ly]" to resolve any potential issues that come up.
Many in the aviation community are relieved by this announcement, since pilots already face a number of safety hazards while flying, even without the added risk of GPS signal interruption. They should ensure they have pilot insurance to provide for their families if they are ever in a tragic accident.
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