FAA Issues Boeing Directives Over Canada 5G Interference Risks

Key Facts

Amid the technical challenges posed by expanding telecommunications infrastructure, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued new airworthiness directives for Boeing aircraft. This move responds to the 5G network environment in Canada, where the FAA imposed operating restrictions on specific models lacking radio altimeters capable of withstanding interference. The decision follows the removal of airport exclusion zones in Canada, which increased the potential risk to aircraft navigation systems.

This action reflects the ongoing technical friction between the aviation and telecommunications sectors, as Canada transitioned to an enhanced 5G Lower C-band environment on July 1. According to Transport Canada reports, this shift created more severe interference risks for radio altimeters. While peers like Airbus have previously faced similar pressures to upgrade sensors, Boeing remains under regulatory scrutiny to ensure fleet safety in international markets. Per market data, these restrictions may increase logistical hurdles for airlines operating these models on cross-border routes.