Opportunity
Federal Register #2026-21280
FCC Seeks Comments on Radio Altimeter Retrofit Rebates
Buyer
Wireless Telecommunications Bureau
Posted
October 19, 2026
Respond By
October 26, 2026
Identifier
2026-21280
The Federal Communications Commission is seeking input on proposed rebates for FAA-required radio altimeter retrofits supporting the Upper C-band transition. - Government buyer: Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Wireless Telecommunications Bureau. - Purpose: Gather public comments on rebate categories, amounts, underlying assumptions, and claim-administration procedures for radio altimeter retrofits. - Funding and beneficiaries: New 3.7 GHz Service licensees would fund rebates for eligible aircraft owners and operators. - How proposed rebates vary: Aircraft type, number of altimeters, retrofit effort, and FAA compliance timing. - Administration: The Upper C-band Clearinghouse would process claims; the Bureau seeks procedures that support efficient processing and help prevent fraud, waste, and abuse. - OEMs and vendors: No equipment manufacturers or retrofit vendors are identified. No specific altimeter products, part numbers, or quantities are provided. - Scope: This is a request for comments, not a solicitation for products or services.
Description
The Federal Communications Commission’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau seeks comments on proposed categories and dollar amounts for rebates supporting FAA-mandated radio altimeter retrofits. The retrofits are intended to facilitate terrestrial wireless service deployment in the Upper C-band (3.98–4.2 GHz). The notice also requests comment on the assumptions and methodology behind the proposed rebate amounts and on documentation, requirements, and procedures for administering rebate claims. Comments are due October 26, 2026, and reply comments are due November 16, 2026.