Media Contact: 
Neil Grace, 202-418-0506
neil.grace@fcc.gov 
For Immediate Release
FCC PROPOSES TO STREAMLINE RULES FOR EARTH STATIONS IN MOTION
WASHINGTON, May 18, 2017 – The Federal Communications Commission today took 
steps to streamline, consolidate, and harmonize rules governing earth stations used to provide 
satellite-based services on ships, airplanes and vehicles. The action proposes additional
flexibity for this fast growing segment of the satellite communications market.
Currently, the regulation of these earth stations, collectively known as “earth stations in motion” 
(ESIMs), varies depending on the type of vehicle to which they are attached and are covered in 
various rule provisions.  The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking adopted today, proposes to integrate 
the three types of earth stations in motion into a single regulatory category. The proposal also
proposes rules to allow for blanket licensing in additional frequency bands—the “conventional 
Ka-band”— which will offer additional flexibity to ESIMs.    
Together, these proposed changes would simplify the regulatory approval process for ESIMs, 
reduce the burden on applicants and increase efficiency in processing applications.
Action by the Commission May 18, 2017 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 17-56). 
Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn and O’Rielly approving and issuing separate statements.
IB Docket No. 17-95
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This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes 
official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).