Operational solutions and technology for mitigating the effects of PED EMI on flight crew displays and systems

Many aircraft safety professionals are concerned that evolving FCC rules may foster the introduction of new wireless products that may cause harmful electromagnetic interference (EMI) to aeronautical radio systems. To address these concerns, the NASA office of space communications and chief spectrum managers assembled a multidisciplinary team from NASA Langley Research Center, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, NASA Ames Research Center, the Federal Aviation Administration, United Airlines, Sky West Airlines, and Eagles Wings, Inc. to carry out a comprehensive series of tests determining the nature and extent of EMI threat to aeronautical communications and navigation systems from ultrawideband (UWB) devices meeting FCC approved and proposed levels for unlicensed handheld transmitters. These tests built upon limited functional testing previously reported in a NASA technical memorandum by J.J. Ely. (see inbid., Oct, 2002). UWB is one example of various new-technology transmitters that are being integrated into portable electronic devices (PEDs) that passengers routinely carry on board commercial airplanes. It is very difficult for airlines and the FAA to control passenger use of intentionally transmitting PEDs with current airline policies and existing wireless product standards. This work examines some PED EMI principles relevant to airplane operations and reviews work performed by RTCA committees, airlines, NASA and others. Most importantly, a two-part process is presented for improving flight safety by reducing the susceptibility of aircraft COM/NAV systems and by managing the potential effects of PED EMI in the cockpit.