AT&T and Verizon to delay 5G network rollout after airlines warn of ‘catastrophe’
AT&T and Verizon have agreed to halt their 5G rollout amid concerns from airlines that the signals could confuse pilots and cause a "catastrophic situation".
The telecom giants reluctantly agreed that they would delay their C-band 5G technology rollout that was supposed to go ahead this week.
It comes after the FAA and pilots unions said they may have to cancel thousands of flights if the cellular signals near airports were switched on.
The tech was due to launch around the US this Wednesday.
That's been the deadline for the past two years.
The networks are said to have 500 towers that some experts think are too close to 88 airports across the country.
"This agreement will avoid potentially devastating disruptions to passenger travel, cargo operations, and our economic recovery, while allowing more than 90 percent of wireless tower deployment to occur as scheduled.
"This agreement protects flight safety and allows aviation operations to continue without significant disruption and will bring more high-speed internet options to millions of Americans."
"This will allow 5G to be deployed while avoiding harmful impacts on the aviation industry, traveling public, supply chain, vaccine distribution, our workforce and broader economy. "
Airlines for America urged for "immediate intervention" to prevent "significant operational disruption to air passengers, shippers, supply chain and delivery of needed medical supplies."
"Take a pause. This is about a cellphone signal, and we're focused on protecting lives."
In other news, cryptocurrency tycoons who spent $3million (£2.2million) buying a copy of a notebook have been left disappointed.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
China has built an 'artificial moon' to train its astronauts for future missions.
And, a new virtual reality vest that lets you feel multiple sensations could be used by long-distance lovers.