Boeing and Airbus raise 5G safety alarm

Executives from Boeing and Airbus have urged the US government to delay the launch of 5G services by Verizon and AT&T, citing concerns that the C band spectrum could interfere with aircraft equipment like radio altitude meters. This interference could affect pilots' ability to navigate, especially in poor visibility conditions. United Airlines' CEO, Scott Kirby, highlighted that new FAA 5G directives could impact operations at major airports. A joint letter from airline manufacturers noted that if 5G rules had been in place in 2019, numerous flights would have faced delays or cancellations.

Why have Boeing and Airbus executives called on the US government regarding 5G services?

• To delay the launch due to potential interference with aircraft equipment

• To request financial support for 5G implementation

• To support the launch of 5G services

• To promote faster internet speeds

What specific aircraft equipment is mentioned as being potentially affected by 5G?

• Cockpit displays

• Radio altitude meters

• Engine turbines

• Landing gear

In what conditions are radio altitude meters particularly important?

• At night and in misty or stormy weather

• In clear weather

• During takeoff

• When flying over water

What could have been the impact on flights if 5G rules were in effect in 2019?

• Increased flight speeds

• More frequent flights

• Delays, diversions, or cancellations

• Reduced ticket prices

How many passenger flights could have been affected by 5G rules in 2019?

• 1,000,000

• 100,000

• 345,000

• 500,000