NASA Demonstrates 5G Communications Infrastructure for Urban Air Taxis

NASA announced on July 23, 2025, that it has tested the use of existing 5G networks as the communication infrastructure for air cabs for use in urban areas. Compared to building a new communication network or deploying a dedicated satellite, the company expects significant cost reductions and rapid deployment.

The tests were conducted at NASA's Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio, from April to May of the same year, and involved communication tests between the Pilatus PC-12, a small aircraft equipped with a C-band 5G radio, and a ground station. The tests evaluated signal attenuation, communication interference caused by obstructions, and the effect of the aircraft's attitude. Through these verifications, basic knowledge for applying 5G technology to air-to-ground communications was obtained.

Casey Bakula, the project's principal investigator, commented, "The results of this study will provide guidance for future air communications network operators, such as satellite navigation operators and telecommunications companies, and may help the FAA develop requirements for future advanced air mobility networks in urban areas. The results of this study may provide guidance for future air communications network operators, such as satellite navigation and telecommunications companies, and help the FAA develop requirements for future advanced air mobility networks in cities.

Materials

• NASA Tests 5G-Based Aviation Network to Boost Air Taxi Connectivity
• NASA Tests 5G Network to Enhance Air Taxi Connectivity