scope:

The present document describes a system designed to provide non-safety of life broadband DA2G communications, which may require a change of the present frequency designation/utilisation within CEPT or some changes to the present regulatory framework for the proposed band(s) regarding either intended or unwanted emissions.

The preferred regulatory approach would be for this system to operate on a non-interference and unprotected basis within the band 5,855 GHz to 5,875 GHz. However, it is recognised that there are important applications (including ITS and BFWA) that are deployed or planned in, or adjacent to, the 5,8 GHz band.

The document includes, in particular:

• Market information;

• Technical information;

• Regulatory issues.

To avoid any misunderstanding, the system described uses 3G TDD technology in the band 5,855 GHz to 5,875 GHz to establish a direct backhaul link between the aircraft and ground network. Passenger equipment is not able to have direct radio access to the link. Network elements providing coverage on-board aircraft, primarily WLANs, as well as service platforms (e.g. for passengers, airlines and aircraft manufacturers) already exist [i.1] and [i.2]. Passenger connectivity is via a suitable access point that itself can utilise the backhaul link.

However, the document does not cover equipment compliance with relevant civil aviation regulations. In this respect, the on-board unit of the DA2GC system is subject to additional national or international civil aviation airworthiness certification, for example to EUROCAE ED-14E [i.3].

While this requirement addresses the band 5,855 GHz to 5,875 GHz, the 3G technology has been successfully tested in the bands 118 MHz to 137 MHz, 1,9 GHz to 2,1 GHz and 5,090 GHz to 5,150 GHz [i.4].