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“The satellite systems, known as Earth Stations Aboard
Aircraft, use satellite antennas installed on the top of
planes to communicate with satellite space stations.
This service, operated by multiple licensees, shares 1
GHz of spectrum among the licensees and with many other
Fixed-Satellite Service operators. Air-to-ground systems
deliver in-flight broadband through a ground-based
network that communicates with an antenna on the bottom
of a plane, which connects to an onboard Wi-Fi system
providing service throughout the cabin.
“The current air-ground licensee operates with just 4
MHz in the 800 MHz band. This item is focused on meeting
the growing demand for in-flight broadband by freeing up
spectrum for use for air-to-ground services. Of course,
identifying new spectrum for new uses has been an FCC
priority for the past several years. We’ve worked to
free up spectrum for use with traditional auctions.
We've worked to reallocate spectrum for mobile broadband
from both commercial and government bands, and we've
worked to share spectrum where reallocation isn't
possible.
“We need to continue to facilitate forward-thinking
proposals like this one that help move us toward
more efficient and productive use of our limited
spectrum resources. Today’s Notice demonstrates how
technology and innovation are enabling new solutions
to meet spectrum demand, while protecting incumbent
users”.
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