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United Cargo expects "minor disruptions" to its services amid growing concerns over the 5G rollout in the United States.
Jan Krems, president of United Airlines Cargo, tagged the issue as "yet another aviation industry challenge" as he sought for "higher level of coordination" among stakeholders to avert any or further disruptions.
"As you likely know, the planned expansion of the 5G C-Band cellular service is headline news and a growing concern for United and other US carriers," Krems began. "The aviation industry and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) raised concerns about the potential interference of 5G with aircraft electronics on flight operations in at least 40 of the country's largest metropolitan areas."
He noted that when deployed next to runways, aircraft communication systems could be compromised thereby creating safety concerns resulting in possible service disruptions.
"On Tuesday, AT&T and Verizon agreed to temporarily limit 5G C-Band deployment on some towers near certain airports as they continue to work with the aviation industry and the FAA to provide further information about the risks 5G poses to air carriers' operations. In addition, the FAA is working with aircraft manufacturers to identify temporary changes that will allow United to operate our schedule safely while a larger solution is identified."
For United Cargo, Krems said disruptions appear minimal at the moment.
"The good news, at this point in time, is that we anticipate only minor disruptions at some airports due to the remaining 5G restrictions," the United Cargo chief added.
"We're pleased the Biden Administration reached a compromise with AT&T and Verizon to avoid mass cancellations across the aviation industry. We look forward to a higher level of coordination between the regulators, telecom companies and the aviation industry to ensure that customers are not faced with disruptions going forward," Krems added.
United Cargo will continue to stay close to the situation, the statement continued.
"Thanks, in advance, for your support and understanding as we navigate through yet another aviation industry challenge."
