FCC Creates Private Radio Stations for Robot Aircraft
Published Date: 1/8/2025
Rule
Summary
The FCC is opening up a special slice of airwaves (5030-5091 MHz) just for drone pilots to safely control their flying machines, especially in tricky or busy airspace. Starting February 7, 2025, drone operators can get temporary frequency spots managed by smart systems to keep their signals clear and reliable. This means smoother, safer drone flights without messing up other important signals nearby.
Analyzed Economic Effects
10 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 6 costs, 1 mixed.
Dedicated UAS Control Band Assigned
The FCC sets aside spectrum for uncrewed aircraft control in the 5030–5091 MHz band and establishes a near-term Non-Networked Access (NNA) block of 10 megahertz at 5040–5050 MHz. During the interim period before the dynamic frequency management systems (DFMSs) operate, NNA users may access 20 megahertz at 5040–5060 MHz. These rules take effect February 7, 2025.
Interim Access Mechanism (IAM) Available
Before DFMSs are operational, eligible NNA operators can use an Interim Access Mechanism (IAM) to access 20 megahertz at 5040–5060 MHz for short-term, single-flight operations. IAM access requires FAA coordination and FCC registration and will end once a DFMS begins operations.
License‑by‑Rule, But Certified Devices Required
The FCC authorizes NNA ground and aircraft stations by rule (no individual spectrum licenses) so long as operators use certified, Commission‑approved NNA stations and follow the part 88 rules. Applicants for equipment certification must notify the FAA of the equipment manufacturer when filing.
DFMS Registration and Fee Requirement
To use the NNA spectrum, parties must register with a Commission‑approved Dynamic Frequency Management System (DFMS) and may only transmit pursuant to temporary frequency assignments from a DFMS. DFMS administrators may charge reasonable registration, assignment, and usage‑based fees.
Equipment Certification Under RTCA DO‑362A
Transmitters for part 88 must be certified under OET procedures and the FCC incorporates portions of the RTCA DO‑362A (2020) standard for transmitter power, bandwidth, out‑of‑band emissions, emission mask, and time division duplexing. Applicants must notify the FAA of the equipment manufacturer during certification filings.
Only Control Links Allowed; Ground Stations Must Be Fixed
Use of the NNA spectrum is limited to Control and Non‑payload Communications (CNPC) between the uncrewed aircraft and its ground station. Ground and fixed NNA stations are permitted only if they are not in motion during operation and operations must be limited to the location associated with the frequency assignment.
Timing Limits on Frequency Assignments
DFMS assignments for NNA operations may be approved only for operations lasting no more than 24 hours and normally may not be approved for periods commencing more than seven calendar days after a request (except for lack of availability).
FAA Authorization Verification Required
A DFMS must confirm in the assignment process that the requesting party has FAA flight authorization covering the flight and that the remote pilot has the necessary FAA remote pilot authorization. Parties challenging DFMS actions concerning FAA authorization must submit an FAA determination with their filing to the FCC.
Public Safety Gets Priority in Emergencies
In emergencies, DFMSs should, to the extent feasible and consistent with aviation safety, prioritize requests from public safety entities. In periods of congestion, DFMSs should prioritize flights that rely on a single ground station over multi‑station flights, and public safety priority takes precedence if both apply.
Exclusion Zones and NRQZ Coordination
The FCC will establish exclusion zones to protect Federal Microwave Landing Systems (MLS) and requires coordination within the National Radio Quiet Zone (NRQZ). DFMSs must notify the NRQZ Administrator and allow a 20‑day objection period; DFMSs must notify NSF of assignments near listed radio astronomy facilities. These procedures can limit or delay assignments near protected sites.
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