Potential Flight Disruptions Expected During Holiday Weekend Due to 5G Rollout

Wireless providers are set to activate new 5G systems near major airports, potentially causing disruptions to airline flights. Aviation groups have expressed concerns about interference with aircraft equipment, particularly radio altimeters used for landing in low visibility. Most major US airlines claim to be prepared, except for Delta Air Lines, which has 190 planes lacking upgraded altimeters due to supply chain issues. The Federal Communications Commission granted wireless carriers licenses for the C-Band spectrum, dismissing interference risks, but a compromise delayed the rollout near 50 busy airports until now. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned of potential flight disruptions for planes without retrofitted altimeters, urging airlines to adjust schedules.