The National Business Aviation Association has welcomed new FAA and FCC changes to the radio-altimeter mandate, after the final rule created a phased compliance framework for aircraft operating in the 48 contiguous US states and Washington, DC. The revised requirements apply to aircraft using radio altimeters in adjacent-band spectrum affected by the FCC’s Upper C-band expansion, with minimum performance standards now replacing an immediate fleetwide retrofit.
The rule sets different deadlines by operator category, giving some business aircraft and all Part 135 operators until 31 October 2034, while Part 121 carriers must comply by 30 December 2030. Eligible US operators will also have access to a rebate programme funded from future FCC auction proceeds. NBAA said industry coalition input helped shape the final provisions, including the extended timetable and reimbursement framework, as regulators seek to protect flight safety from wireless interference while avoiding unnecessary disruption to aircraft operations.