The FCC has pointed to support from drone makers, wireless carriers and industry groups ahead of a vote on letting commercial drones use additional cellular spectrum.
The Federal Communications Commission has highlighted broad industry backing for a proposed rule change that would let commercial drones use more cellular spectrum. In an October 27 announcement, the office of FCC Chairman Brendan Carr shared statements from drone companies, telecom providers and industry organizations that support the move. The Commission is scheduled to vote on Thursday, October 29, on an order that would lift longstanding limits on drone operations in the 800 MHz cellular band.
The proposal would open 50 megahertz of licensed, nationwide, low-band cellular spectrum to drones. According to the FCC, an outdated rule has kept drones from using this spectrum for about 35 years. Reliable wireless links matter most for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flights, which are relevant to drone delivery, infrastructure inspection and public safety work. The change alone would not authorize BVLOS flights, however, and operators would still need to meet FAA requirements. The announcement also does not detail the technical conditions for using the spectrum or when the rules would take effect.
Supportive statements came from Amazon, AT&T, Verizon, AUVSI, the Commercial Drone Alliance, ANRA Technologies, DRONERESPONDERS and several drone and technology companies. AUVSI stressed that reliable connectivity is essential for routine BVLOS flight, while Amazon pointed to its growing drone delivery service. DRONERESPONDERS welcomed the added spectrum for public safety missions.
The October 27 release highlights stakeholder support rather than a final decision. The October 29 vote will determine whether the proposal moves forward, and the final order will set the specific conditions for drone use of the 800 MHz band.
Source: DroneLife
