Media Contact: 
Cecilia Sulhoff, (202) 418-0587
cecilia.sulhoff@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release

FCC PROPOSES CHANGES TO RULES TO PROMOTE AVIATION SAFETY
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WASHINGTON, June 6, 2019—The Federal Communications Commission today proposed changes to its part 87 Aviation Radio Service rules to support the deployment of more advanced avionics technology, increase efficient use of aeronautical spectrum, and improve aviation safety. 

The Commission’s Aviation Radio Service uses dedicated spectrum to enhance the safety of aircraft in flight, facilitate the efficient movement of aircraft both in the air and on the ground, and otherwise ensure the reliability and effectiveness of aviation communications.  The rule changes set forth in this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking would modernize both communications on board aircraft and by telecommunications stations on the ground that communicate with aircraft.  The proposed rule changes would help to ensure the timely deployment and use of today’s state-of-the-art, safety-enhancing technologies, such as those comprising the Federal Aviation Administration’s Next Generation Aviation System.  

The Notice also proposes technical and service rules for the Aeronautical Mobile Airport Communications System, which will enable broadband communications capability to support airport surface operations.  In addition, the Notice proposes new service rules and rule changes to assist pilots in the detection of objects in degraded visual environments, such as fog, or potential land-based obstructions.

Together, these proposals are intended to update our Aviation Radio Service rules to reflect current technology and conditions and to advance the Commission’s critical goal of promoting technologies that enhance and protect the safety of life and property. 

Action by the Commission June 6, 2019 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 19-53).  Chairman Pai, Commissioners O’Rielly, Carr, Rosenworcel, and Starks approving and issuing separate statements.

WT Docket No. 19-140; RM-11793, RM-11799; RM-11818; RM-11832

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Media Relations: (202) 418-0500 / ASL: (844) 432-2275 / TTY: (888) 835-5322 / Twitter: @FCC / www.fcc.gov 

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).