Avionics
FreeFlight Readies 5G-interference-resistent Radar Altimeters
FreeFlight Systems expects to receive FAA TSO approval of its Terrain series 5G-resistant radar altimeters shortly.
(Photo: Matt Thurber)
(Photo: Matt Thurber)

FreeFlight Systems is in the final stages of obtaining FAA Technical Standard Order (TSO) approval for its Terrain series 5G-interference-resistant radar altimeters. The company plans to submit all required paperwork for the TSO in early April, and approval should follow shortly.

At the Aircraft Electronics Association convention this week in New Orleans, FreeFlight president Tony Rios noted that the Terrain series radar altimeters provide an “AMOC radius” of 0.1 nm or better. Most existing radar altimeters, including FreeFlight’s earlier products, are subject to 5G cellular network C-band interference at 2 nm or more distance from the transmitting 5G antenna. “Outside of this radius, [radar altimeters] will not be affected,” the company explained. “Inside, it may not be available or is giving undetected, erroneous altitude readings.”