​Airlines will be able to provide the latest 5G technology on board their aircraft, as the European Commission has updated its implementing decision on the frequency spectrum for mobile communication on board aircraft, allocating certain frequencies for 5G technology in flight.

Passengers on board EU airlines will be able to use their mobile phones to their full capacity, just like when connected to 5G mobile networks on the ground.

• “5G will enable innovative services for travelers and growth opportunities for European companies. The sky is no longer the limit in terms of the possibilities offered by ultra-fast and high-performance connectivity,” said Thierry Breton, Commissioner for the Internal Market.

Since 2008, a Commission implementing decision has reserved certain frequencies for mobile communications on board aircraft, allowing airlines to provide messaging, phone calls and data services to passengers flying within the EU.

This update of the Commission’s implementing decision on mobile communications on board aircraft paves the way for the large-scale deployment of 5G services.

How 5G will work on an airplane. New bands for Wi-Fi in road transport

The service is provided in the cabin of an equipped aircraft using special network equipment (called a “pico-cell”) to connect users and transfer calls, texts and data, usually via a satellite network, between the aircraft and the terrestrial mobile network. .

The Commission also amended the Implementing Decision on the 5 GHz frequency bands to state that the bands are available for Wi-Fi in road transport, for example in cars and buses.

The decision to change opens up the horizons for innovation in the automotive industry and perhaps for applications in the metaverse.

According to the amended implementing decision, Member States must make the 5 GHz frequency bands available for use on board vehicles as soon as possible and no later than 30 June 2023.

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