The FCC will indefinitely suspend LightSquared’s authority to carry terrestrial broadband signals on frequencies close to GPS frequencies after receiving a report that concludes the two systems cannot currently coexist. A year of testing demonstrated serious and widespread interference according to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. LightSquared says it “profoundly disagrees” with the findings, which will effectively cancel its plans for a $14 billion high-speed wireless system. However, there may be room in the FCC decision for revamped plan.
The FAA reauthorization bill creates a fast-track for the integration of civil unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) into the national airspace. The legislation states that the FAA and the UAS industry must work together to develop a “comprehensive plan” by mid-November that will safely achieve the full integration of UAS by Sept. 30, 2015. But even by mid-2014, UAS that weigh under 55 pounds will be allowed to fly in the national airspace system. The legislation says that all UAS must have a “sense and avoid capability,” and standards will be set for the licensing of operators. The FAA also will be required to study the causes of accidents involving UAS.
