What's Happening?
NASA is conducting tests to evaluate the suitability of 5G networks for supporting electric air taxis and urban air mobility systems. These tests, carried out at NASA's Glenn Research Center, aim to integrate 5G standards within current aviation communication bands for air-to-ground and aircraft-to-aircraft data transmission. The research involves installing a 5G-compatible radio system in a Pilatus PC-12 aircraft and a complementary system on a building, using a frequency band allocated by the Federal Communications Commission. Initial results show basic functionality, but signal disruption caused by aircraft rotor blades remains a challenge. This research is part of NASA's Advanced Air Mobility mission, focusing on developing scalable and secure aviation communication networks.
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Why It's Important?
The integration of 5G technology into aviation could revolutionize communication systems for air taxis, enhancing safety and efficiency in urban airspaces. This development is crucial for the future of urban air mobility, potentially benefiting telecommunications companies and satellite navigation providers. However, challenges like propeller modulation need to be addressed to ensure reliable communication, which is vital for passenger safety and collision avoidance. The findings could guide the Federal Aviation Administration's plans for advanced air mobility network requirements, impacting regulatory frameworks and industry standards.
What's Next?
NASA plans to continue its research to address the challenges posed by propeller modulation and improve signal integrity. The agency intends to share its baseline performance data with the FAA and industry stakeholders, paving the way for future enhancements in aviation communication systems. This ongoing research will also explore autonomous flight safety, in partnership with agencies like DARPA and manufacturers such as Sikorsky, to ensure safe integration of autonomous air taxi operations into national airspace.
