Airborne Safety in the Age of 5g: Assessing the Potential Interference Between C-Band and Aeronautical Radar Altimeter

Abstract

Abstract. The recent deployment of 5G technology in the C-band frequency range has raised concerns regarding potential interference with aeronautical radar altimeters. 5G technology utilizes the C-band in the range of 3.7–3.98 GHz, which partially overlaps with the frequency range used by radar altimeters operating in the range of 4.2–4.4 GHz, resulting in an increased possibility of interference between the two systems. In this study, a comprehensive methodology was employed to conduct an interference analysis, investigating the compatibility between 5G wireless systems and radar altimeters. This involved implementing a realistic scenario that replicated the operational interaction between radar altimeters and 5G systems, with the goal of identifying the impact of 5G networks on radar altimeter performance. This paper outlines the scenarios leading to interference, and suggests feasible methods to overcome this issue.