The FCC issued a conditional waiver of specified airborne cellular restrictions for DOT's Mobile Network Aviation Assessment Program (MNAAP). It covers testing in the contiguous United States by DOT-authorized participants using the MNAAP App or Module, with up to 2,000 general aviation pilots and 200 non-federal Module participants at one time. Operations must follow the order's spectrum, equipment and interference conditions. The waiver expires at 12:00 a.m. Eastern Time on October 1, 2029.
What to do: Drone connectivity and aviation safety teams can review the order for research planning. Confirm DOT participation authorization and the applicable equipment and operating conditions before relying on this waiver; it does not grant general permission for airborne cellular use or establish a new application deadline.