Global airlines have been forced to cancel or change aircraft types on dozens of flights over potential risk after the rollout of 5G mobile in the United States.
Although other aircraft types reportedly possess low risk, it seems that the Boeing 777 is at a higher risk of radio altimeter interference from 5G signals. Other aircraft are also following precautions in place. Besides Boeing 777, Boeing 747-8s are also affected by the new 5G service.
In a statement issued by the US Federal Aviation Administration, the agency said:
“The FAA will continue to ensure that the travelling public is safe as wireless companies deploy 5G. The FAA continues to work with the aviation industry and wireless companies to try to limit 5G-related flight delays and cancellations.”
The Boeing 777 uses a model of radio altimeter, which the FAA has not approved in areas with C-Band 5G uses. Although the US aviation watchdog objected to the deployment of 5G in critical areas, it was switched on.
#FlyAI: Due to deployment of the 5G communications in USA,we will not be able to operate the following flights of 19th Jan'22:
AI101/102 DEL/JFK/DEL
AI173/174 DEL/SFO/DEL
AI127/126 DEL/ORD/DEL
AI191/144 BOM/EWR/BOMPlease standby for further updates.https://t.co/Cue4oHChwx
— Air India (@airindia) January 18, 2022
ANA, Japan Airlines, Air India are some airlines that cancelled Boeing 777 operations to the United States. ANA has replaced some of the routes with Boeing 787 Dreamliners, saying they will be able to operate with equipment adjustments.
JAL is cancelling all U.S. flights flown with a 777 citing potential interference with radio altimeters from 5G rollout.
JAL flies 777s to Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York JFK, per Cirium. pic.twitter.com/KR8dYF70lM
— Edward Russell (@ByERussell) January 18, 2022
Emirates, the world’s largest Boeing 777 operator, is undoubtedly affected by the deployment of 5G. On Tuesday, the Dubai-based carrier announced that it will suspend flights to nine destinations in the United States as of Jan. 19 until further notice because of concerns over 5G mobile deployment.
