U.S. FCC Proposes Additional Spectrum for Drone Communications – Reuters

By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed new regulations aimed at allocating licensed radio spectrum in the 5 GHz band specifically for the increasing number of unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones.

Presently, drones largely operate under low-power wireless communications rules or through experimental licenses. The FCC is also inviting feedback on whether existing regulations for various spectrum bands are adequate to ensure that drones can coexist with terrestrial mobile operations. Additionally, the FCC is suggesting a procedure for drone operators to obtain a license in the aeronautical VHF band, which would allow them to facilitate communications with air traffic control and other aircraft.

FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the importance of adapting spectrum rules to accommodate the evolving needs of technologies like unmanned aircraft systems, which are essential for applications such as disaster recovery, first responder situations, and wildfire management.

Drones, typically operated remotely, rely heavily on wireless communication between a ground control station and the aircraft itself. The FCC noted that as drone operations increasingly involve higher risks—such as using larger aircraft, carrying substantial cargo or human passengers, or entering airspace designated for commercial passenger flights—there is a growing demand for the reliability offered by interference-protected licensed spectrum.

Regulations enacted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) enabling small drones to fly over people and at night went into effect in April 2021. Those regulations required manufacturers to begin producing drones equipped with Remote ID technology within 18 months.

These identification rules mandate that drones broadcast remote ID messages via radio frequency. However, earlier proposals that suggested drones needed to be connected to the internet for location data transmission were eliminated. A federal appeals court upheld these requirements in July.