Federal Register #2026-13205

FAA Directive: Boeing Aircraft Flight Manual Updates for 5G Interference in Canadian Airspace

This opportunity involves a new FAA airworthiness directive (AD) addressing 5G interference risks for Boeing aircraft in Canadian airspace. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation - OEMs and Vendors: - Boeing (primary OEM) - Products/Services Requested: - Revision of airplane flight manuals (AFM) for specified Boeing models to include operational limitations in Canadian airspace - Optional modification to a radio altimeter tolerant configuration, which may involve radio altimeter replacement or filter addition - Notable Requirements: - Applies to a wide range of Boeing aircraft models (707, 717, 727, DC-8, DC-9, DC-10, MD-10, MD-11, MD-81, MD-82, MD-83, MD-87, MD-88, MD-9030) - Focuses on mitigating radio altimeter interference from 5G wireless broadband (3.7-3.98 GHz band) - Operators must implement AFM revisions unless aircraft are upgraded to a tolerant configuration - No specific part numbers or quantities provided; modifications are optional but remove operational limitations - Ensures continued operational safety in response to new Canadian 5G spectrum rules

Description

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive for various Boeing airplane models due to interference issues with radio altimeters caused by wireless broadband operations in the 3.7-3.98 GHz band (5G Lower C-Band) in Canadian airspace. This interference affects the proper functioning of airplane systems during approach, landings, and go-arounds, increasing flightcrew workload and potentially reducing flight safety. The directive requires revising the airplane flight manual to include operational limitations when flying in Canadian airspace. The AD is effective July 1, 2026, and comments are requested by August 14, 2026.

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