ICAO Radio Frequency Handbook

ICAO Radio Frequency Handbook
DOC 9718 – Fifth edition The first edition was issued in 1998, with 4 revisions since then. The revisions incorporate amendments to the ITU Radio Regulations, policy statements, etc. The ICAO policy statements in the Handbook are approved by the ICAO Council and reflect the ICAO official position regarding radiotelecommunication matters. The purpose of this Handbook is to assist States and ICAO in preparations for WRCs ICAO is preparing a 2nd volume that will contain details on frequency assignment and planning. Today, we’re going to provide an introduction and general overview on this very useful Handbook. This Handbook is an excellent resource that can be used to prepare for meeting where aeronautical spectrum will be discussed. Presented by: Loftur Jónasson ICAO

Organization of the Handbook Nine Chapters: 1 – Introduction 2 – Objectives and purpose of the Handbook 3 – The International Telecommunication Union 4 – The ITU Regulatory Framework 5 – ICAO involvement in Frequency and Spectrum 6 – Overview of the Spectrum Management Process 7 – Statement of Frequency Allocations and ICAO Policy 8 – Future Spectrum Requirement 9 – Interference protection considerations This slide is just to inform you of the various chapters in the Handbook.

8 Attachments A – Definition and Terms Summary of definitions of terms in the Radio Regulations B – Acronyms and abbreviations C – Regulation of Radio in aircraft is addressed under Chapter 4 D – Review and update (of the Handbook) provides a schedule for updating the Handbook to reflect decisions of WRC’s and develop positions for future WRC’s E – Strategy for establishing and promoting the ICAO position for ITU World Radiocommunication Conferences F – ICAO position for WRC-2012 – addressed in separate presentation G – Technical Information and Frequency Sharing Criteria H – ITU Resolutions and Recommendations – as contained in the RR Attachments are at the end of the book – they are quite useful. Attachment A to the Handbook contains the ITU definitions for a number of terms used in the Radio Regulations. Attachment B explains the acronyms and abbreviations used in the Handbook Attachment C discusses the use of radio in aircraft (see Chapter 4) Attachment D provides the plan for updating the Handbook, in particular in relation to incorporating decisions of WRC’s Attachment F is addressed in a separate presentation, specific to the ICAO position for WRC 2012. Attachment G is a new attachment in this latest revision of the handbook. This attachment contains references to Technical material for systems used in each frequency band Attachment H is also a new attachment in Revision 5. This attachment contains references to all ITU Resolutions and Recommendations which have relevance to Civil Aviation.

Chapter 1 - Introduction Introduces the Handbook and highlights: RF spectrum is a scarce natural resource and must be available to the States and radio services Competition between users for spectrum RF spectrum allocations managed by the ITU Aeronautical spectrum is for safety and efficiency RF congestion in spectrum utilization International competition for spectrum allocations Various processes on spectrum allocations Chapter 1 introduces the material that’sin the Handbook. Audience members are encouraged to read the Handbook. The chapter emphasises that RF spectrum is a scarce natural resource, that it has finite capacities in terms of the RF bandwidth available. It needs to be emphasised that all users of radiocommnications services are targeting more or less the same radio frequency spectrum. Many many competitiors for the same very finite resource. The ITU provides the overall management fo RF spectrum. States or Administrations participate in the ITU meetings with the invaluable participation of aviation experts. The ITU does recognise that aviation requirements are unique in that special measures need to be taken to ensure that aeronautical services aren’t interfered with by non-aeronautical services.

Chapter 2 – Objectives and purposes ITU is the specialized agency of the United Nations on all telecommunication matters ICAO is the specialized agency of the United Nations on aeronautical matters ICAO presents the internationally agreed aeronautical requirements (ICAO position) for spectrum to ITU -WRC’s ICAO position to be used by aeronautical authorities on a national level ICAO position is developed by the Air Navigation Commission ICAO position and policy statements are approved by Council Chapter 2 describes the objectives and purposes of the Handbook. This presentation is designed to give you an overall view as to what is in the Handbook and Encourage you to read it and see what a great resource it is. The ITU is the specialized agency of the United Nations on all Telecommunication matters, including the allocations and use of the radio frequency spectrum. ICAO is the specialized agency of the United Nations on all aeronautical matters. ICAO performs many activities that affect the use of radio frequency spectrum. These include items such as developing SARPs (Standards and Recommended Practices), including developing SARPs for radio equipment. ICAO does coordinate frequency assignments with ICAO contracting states. It’s critical that ICAO be present for meetings at the ITU to assist with matters involving non-aeronautical and aeronautical services. Every four years, once the draft ITU WRC agenda is written, the official ICAO Position is developed in preparation for the WRC. The ICAO Position is coordinated with States and approved by ICAO Council. To assist States and ICAO in this activity, ICAO has also developed a continuing policy Statement for all frequency bands used for aeronautical applications, including airborne systems such as radio altimeters and airborne weather radar and ground systems such as primary radar. This Policy Statement is updated in the light of decisions taken at ITU conferences, and in particular when changes are made to the Radio Regulations. The Policy Statement is approved by the ICAO Council. Chapter 7 of the Handbook includes the Policy Statement.

Chapter 3 the International Telecommunication Union The ITU is the specialized agency of the United Nations on all Telecommunication matters. Other Organizations such as ICAO are not barred from any kind of work on (aeronautical) telecommunications, including Standardization ITU develops the Radio Regulations at World Radiocommunication Conferences. Radio Regulations are treaty document and can only be modified at WRC’s Chapter 3 describes the International Telecommunication Union. The ITU was created in 1932 through the fusion of the International Telegraph Union (1865) and the International Radio Telegraph Union. It became a specialized agency of the United Nations in 1947. ICAO was formed in 1946. This chapter discusses the history of both organisations and makes for very interesting reading. Chapter 3 clarifies the roles of the ITU and ICAO. ICAO participates, in an special observer capacity, at all levels of the WRC’s, ITU-R Assembly and the relevant Study Groups. The very important output from these meetings and Conferences are the ITU Radio Regulations and the ITU-R Recommendations. All work that ICAO undertakes on aeronautical radio systems, is undertaken within the framework set by these provisions. This also means that the ITU cannot change the framework (such as the frequency allocations to aviation) without having received the observations from ICAO. In this context, ICAO preparatory activities towards a WRC are extremely important, as unacceptable changes to the Radio Regulations may affect the safety and efficiency of air transport.

Chapter 3 the International Telecommunication Union National Radio Regulatory authorities control the mechanism for developing national proposals to ITU Conferences Such proposals take into account the interests of all users of spectrum, including aeronautical interests The Radio Regulations also include a number of administrative provisions (e.g. on licensing) Technical work in ITU takes place in the Radiocommunication Study Groups Regional positions for WRC’s are developed by the Regional Telecommunication organizations. This chapter provides details on how the ITU works with its member states and Telecommunication regulatory authorities such as: The Regional Telecommunications Organizations are: Arab Spectrum Management Group (ASMG) Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) African Telecommunications Union (ATU) European Conference for Post and Telecommunications (CEPT) Inter-American Telecommunication Commission (CITEL) Regional Commonwealth for Telecommunications (RCC)

Chapter 3 the International Telecommunication Union ITU has split the world in three geographical Regions (1, 2 and 3). The ITU did this in order to recognize certain Regional differences that may be necessary in the frequency allocations,

Chapter 4 the ITU Regulatory Framework for aeronautical radio services ITU Radio Regulations: Spectrum allocations Registration of frequency assignments Special (administrative) provisions Frequencies for aviation are for safety -Spectrum allocations to Services and to each of the three ITU Regions National or sub-Regional allocations are made through footnotes [to the table of allocations] Use of HF spectrum is regulated in Appendix 27 to the Radio Regulations Chapter 4 The provisions in the ITU Radio Regulations form the basis on which ICAO develops SARPs for radio communication and navigation systems, as well as the frequency coordination that ICAO undertakes through «the» Regional Offices. The Radio Regulations allocate frequency bands to all radio services, including aeronautical services. In addition to the frequency allocations to radio services, the Radio Regulations also contain Administrative provisions on the registration (and protection) of frequency assignments as well as on the use of radio frequencies.

Overview of services to which spectrum has been allocated
This chart shows the interrelation between the various services defined in the Radio Regulations. Aeronautical Safety services include the Aeronautical Mobile (Route) Service (AM(R)S), the Aeronautical Mobile Satellite (Route) Service (AMS(R)S) and the Aeronautical Radionavigation Service (ARNS),

Chapter 4 the ITU Regulatory Framework for aeronautical radio services Aeronautical Communications Allocations to the Aeronautical Mobile (R) Service: 2.8 – 30 MHz (HF bands; regulated under Appendix 27) – 137 MHz 112 – MHz, – 1164 MHz (shared with the Aeronautical Radionavigation Service) -5091 – 5150 MHz (shared with ARNS , AMS and AMT) Appendix 27 to the Radio Regulations contains detailed provisions on the use and coordination of HF frequencies Chapter 4 (continued) This slide shows Aeronautical Communications bands. Details: The Radio Regulations make allocations in these bands for air/ground safety communications to the Aeronautical Mobile (Route) Service (AM(R)S. The Route service (for operation along national and international air routes) is recognized as a safety service. Two frequency bands are available for AM(R)S on an exclusive basis, the Aeronautical HF bands (between 2.8 and 30 MHz) and the Aeronautical VHF band ( – 137 MHz). Recently, AM(R)S allocations were introduced in the bands 112 – MHz, 960 – 1164 MHz and 5091 – 5150 MHz (the first two bands are shared with aeronautical radionavigation services, the third band is shared with aeronautical radionavigation and two aeronautical mobile services (aeronautical mobile security and aeronautical mobile telemetry)). Generic allocations to the aeronautical mobile service or allocations to the aeronautical “(Off-Route)” service (AM(OR)S are not used for civil aviation safety communications. The allocations to the Aeronautical Mobile Satellite “(Route)” service in the 1.5/1.6 GHz bands were removed from the Radio Regulations in 1997 and replaced with a footnote. This footnote is intended to provide priority to the Aeronautical Mobile Satellite (Route) Service in two 10 MHz segments of the Mobile Satellite service bands, through co-ordination and pre-emptive access. It has later been shown through studies that pre-emptive inter-network access is can not be implemented in practice. In any case, WRC-12 Agenda Item 1.7 is an attempt at improving access for aviation safety services to this band.

Chapter 4 the ITU Regulatory Framework for aeronautical radio services Allocations for use by radionavigation have been made to the Radionavigation Service Radionavigation-satellite Service Aeronautical Radionavigation Service Special provisions require States to remove interference from radionavigation services Provisions for the identification of radio navigation systems (e.g. The Morse code on ILS) are contained in the Radio Regulations Chapter 4 (continued) This chapter goes also into detail on the allocations for use by radionavigation.

Chapter 4 the ITU Regulatory Framework for aeronautical radio services Relation of ITU provisions with ICAO SARPs The ITU Radio Regulations contain the internationally agreed policies on the use of RF spectrum by ALL radio services ICAO SARPs that affect the use of RF spectrum must comply with these policies Radio Regulations and SARPs form a complimentary set of provisions on the use of RF spectrum by aviation Chapter 4 (continued) This chapter discusses how ICAO and the ITU work together. The ITU Radio Regulations are developed in accordance with the provisions in the ITU Constitution and Convention and the ICAO SARPS are developed in accordance with the provisions of the ICAO Convention, in particular Article 37 of this Convention. I will not go into any details here, you will find those in the book. I should add though that -Under these arrangements, there is no overlap nor conflict between the ITU and the ICAO provisions, the relevant documents (Radio Regulations and Annex 10) can be seen as complementary to each other. However, this generates an implicit obligation to both organizations, to ensure that no conflict will arise in the future. Therefore, amendments to the Radio Regulations that affect the ICAO provisions need to be coordinated carefully.

Chapter 4 the ITU Regulatory Framework for aeronautical radio services Frequency coordination and registration In principle, coordination of frequency assignments between States to be performed by ITU In practice, the coordination of frequency assignments for aviation is performed by ICAO (Regional Offices) for: NDB ILS, VOR, DME, GBAS VHF COM ICAO can assist in pre-coordination of HF frequency assignments Chapter 4 (continued) In principle, all international coordination of frequency assignments for all radio services is regulated through the extensive provisions in the ITU Radio Regulations. Frequency assignments, after successful coordination under the ITU regime will then be incorporated in the ITU International Frequency List (IFL). Such assignments will be protected from harmful interference from future frequency assignments. However, in practice, the international coordination of aeronautical frequency assignments is performed by ICAO, through the «ICAO Regional Offices». To assist in such coordination, ICAO has developed technical frequency assignment planning criteria and lists (Frequency lists or COM lists) containing all assignments that have been coordinated. Assignment of HF frequencies is a special case which is regulated through Appendix 27 to the Radio Regulations. Coordination of new or modified assignments has to be coordinated within the ITU through the national telecommunication authorities, ICAO can assist in pre-coordinating HF assignments.

Chapter 4 the ITU Regulatory Framework for aeronautical radio services ITU Standards and ITU Recommendations ITU does not develop standards for aeronautical radio systems ITU develops ITU-R Recommendations which may affect the use of aeronautical systems In most cases, ITU-R Recommendations address aspects on sharing of frequency spectrum (co-frequency and adjacent frequency) Chapter 4 (continued) - ITU Standards and ITU Recommendations. The ITU doesn’t develop Standards for aeronautical communication and navigation systems. One of the reasons for this is that the standardization of aeronautical systems normally include important aeronautical safety considerations, for which ICAO is responsible, and for which the necessary expertise is not available in the ITU nor in the radio regulatory authorities. In general, ITU-R Recommendations are developed to address the sharing of aeronautical safety frequency bands with non-aeronautical [safety] services, both for systems sharing the same frequency bands and for systems operating in adjacent frequency bands. ICAO normally participates actively in the development of these ITU-R Recommendations.

Chapter 4 the ITU Regulatory Framework for aeronautical radio services Radio equipment in aircraft (Attachment C to the Handbook) needs to comply with: Telecommunication regulations: Operate in properly allocated aeronautical frequency bands Comply with technical provisions on spurious emission Comply with relevant ITU-R Recommendations Operate in accordance with a radio station license Aeronautical regulations Operators and station license recognized by States Equipment covered by airworthiness certification Comply with provisions of Annex 10 Chapter 4 (continued) This chapter discusses what are Telecommunication regulations and Aeronautical regulations. Details are provided in the chapter.

Chapter 4 the ITU Regulatory Framework for aeronautical radio services National regulations National authorities issue radio station licence License is for the installation and use of radio equipment and is recognized by all ICAO contracting States Airworthiness approval required Airworthiness approval To secure compatibility with other radio equipment and electronic systems on board an aircraft Technical Standing Order Minimum Performance Specifications Chapter 4 includes the discussion of National Regulations and Airworthiness Approval. The chapter does go into significant detail.

Chapter 5 ICAO involvement in frequency planning ICAO develops Standards for communication and navigation systems (Article 37 of the ICAO Convention) Equipment needs to be globally interoperable and requires globally available spectrum allocations ICAO coordinates aeronautical input on spectrum issues to ITU conferences Input from ICAO addresses issues such as: Protection of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) Interference levels Resolution of interference Frequency planning criteria for aviation Chapter 5 This chapter discusses ICAO’s involvement in frequency planning. ICAO develops SARPs for radiocommunication and radionavigation systems. The standards specify the functions of the radio equipment, and include provisions to secure interference free operation, all to meet the requirements for safe operation of the aircraft. Due to the global nature of aviation, the standards are developed for global applicability, in other words the systems require frequency spectrum that is globally available. ICAO coordinates the ICAO input to meetings of the ITU and Regional Telecommunication Organizations. One essential element of this input is to ensure the continued protection of ICAO SARPs. The input to ITU includes establishing acceptable interference levels, it includes measures to resolve interference and it includes development of frequency assignment planning criteria, as required. Establishing the required spectrum capacity for aeronautical communication and navigation systems, to meet the requirements for global implementation of radio systems is another essential element.

Chapter 5 ICAO involvement in frequency planning ICAO activities on spectrum planning are at: Global level (ACP WG F): Develops ICAO policy statements; these are to be used in all discussions affecting aeronautical spectrum ICAO position for ITU on specific aeronautical requirements to be discussed at WRC’s Regional level: Coordination of ICAO frequency assignment plans Support from individual ICAO contracting States is essential Chapter 5 (continued) At the global level, ICAO develops policy statements for each frequency band used by international civil aviation. These policy statements are regularly updated to reflect developments in ICAO as well as in ITU and are approved by the ICAO Council. The policy statements contain the official position of ICAO on all frequency bands used by civil aviation, and are intended to be used by ICAO Contracting States, whenever addressing issues that may affect the use of those frequency bands. The ICAO position on the other hand, is a detailed statement of aviation’s requirements on the specific issues that are discussed at a ITU World Radiocommunication Conference. In the case the ICAO position is not well supported at ITU Conferences, the result may be that either aeronautical radio systems will be interfered with by non-aeronautical systems, or the frequency band capacity available for aeronautical applications will be reduced. The former may result in reduction in safety, with unspeakable consequences. The latter may result in that aeronautical communication or navigation systems cannot be implemented on a global basis, as, where and when required by operational considerations. - At a Regional level, the most important activity with regard to the use of the radio frequency spectrum for aviation is with the development and maintenance of frequency assignment plans. Such plans exist for VHF-COM, ILS, VOR, DME and NDB radio communication and navigation systems. - ICAO activities establish globally agreed material for the protection of aeronautical radio frequency spectrum. However, in order to see this material reflected in the output of the ITU WRC’s, it is essential that the national Civil Aviation Authorities and the Civil Aviation Industry support the ICAO views in their discussions with national Radio Regulatory Authorities as well as at ITU Conferences and meetings.

Chapter 6 Overview of the spectrum management process Regulatory domain ITU Radio Regulations Technical domain: ITU-R Recommendations Licensing domain: Radio station licence (issued by States) Registration domain: ITU international Frequency list ICAO frequency lists Chapter 6 gives an overview of the spectrum management process The regulatory domain in the spectrum management process is determined by the provisions of the ITU Radio Regulations. In practice, most of the frequency assignments for aeronautical communication and navigation systems are coordinated through the ICAO Regional Offices and registered in the relevant ICAO frequency lists (or COM lists). The coordination activities of ICAO provide for protection of new (or modified) assignments from interference.

Chapter 6 Overview of the spectrum management process Elements of the technical domain: Allocation planning World wide or Regional allocations Primary or secondary allocations Footnote allocations Service sharing ITU-R Recommendations Frequency planning ITU frequency assignment plans ICAO frequency assignment plans Chapter 6 (continued) Allocation planning. Frequency allocations can be made on a world wide basis, on a Regional basis, a sub-Regional basis or a national basis. Normally, allocations on a global and regional basis are listed in the Table of Frequency allocations itself, while sub-regional or national allocations are added to the Table in the form of footnotes. Allocations through footnotes have the same status and the same protection as allocations listed in the Table itself. When two or more services share the same frequency band, normally there are ITU-R Recommendations in place to secure protection of the relevant services. Primary allocations will always have priority over secondary allocations. The chapter goes into further detail.

Chapter 6 Overview of the spectrum management process State of the art and spectrum management: Recent advances through increased use of computer technology in frequency assignment planning New technology introduces system improvements resulting in more efficient use of spectrum (e.g kHz channel spacing) Chapter 6 (continued) - Modern technology can assist or improve frequency assignment planning in two areas: - The first area is the use of computer technology in frequency assignment planning. This makes it possible to find, test and optimize new frequency assignments in an efficient manner and to detect possible inconsistencies in current frequency plans - an indispensable aid, especially in complex planning situations. 8.33kHz channel spacing has improved spectrum efficiency in Europe. In the VHF band we have gradually increased the capacity per MHz from 10 channels to 120 channels. Another example of the second area is the development of new and more spectral efficient technologies for communication and navigation services, for instance the technologies currently being considered to support the American NextGen and European Sesar programmes.

Chapter 6 Overview of the spectrum management process Spectrum management in the future: Greater demand for spectrum expected from all radio services Spectrum planning focuses on increased sharing of spectrum between services Spectrum planning focuses on releasing spectrum not used or not efficiently used In some countries spectrum pricing is being proposed Progressive introduction of more spectrum efficient systems Chapter 6 (continued) This slide provides an overview of how we perceive spectrum management in the future.

Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy Section 7-I List of frequency bands for aviation Section 7-II Civil aviation frequency allocations Section 7-III Other provisions in the Radio Regulations Section 7-IV ITU Resolutions and Recommendations Chapter 7 contains an overview of all frequency allocations relevant to international civil aviation, details of these allocations, the ICAO policy on these allocations, as established by ICAO Council, and information on the use of these frequency bands by aviation. - Section 7-I contains an overview of all frequency bands used by international civil aviation and briefly summarizes the purpose for which these frequency bands are being used. Section 7-II contains all details relevant to the allocations in each individual frequency band. This material includes the text of the frequency allocations, the ICAO policy on these allocations; a description of the aeronautical use, interference scenarios ; and background on recent modifications to the Radio Regulations. Further technical references for each band can also be found in Appendix G of the Handbook. Section 7-III contains other regulatory provisions in the ITU Radio Regulations which may also affect the use of frequency spectrum by aviation. Section 7-IV contains a reference to all Resolutions and Recommendations which are part of the ITU Radio Regulations, the ICAO policy on these Recommendations and commentary.

Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation,
ICAO Radio Frequency Handbook Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy Section 7-I: List of frequency bands in use for civil aviation Band Service Aviation use Section 7-II page no. *90–110 kHz RNS LORAN-C 7-15 *130–535 kHz ARNS NDB/locator 7-19 2 850–22 000 kHz AM(R)S Air-ground communications (HF voice and data) 7-31 3 023 and 5 680 kHz Search and rescue 7-41 74.8–75.2 MHz Marker beacon 7-43 *108– MHz VOR/ILS localizer/ GBAS/VDL Mode 4 7-47 * –137 MHz Air-ground and air-air communications (VHF voice and data) 7-59 121.5, and 243 MHz AM(R)S/MSS Emergency frequencies 7-67 328.6–335.4 MHz ILS glide path 7-69 Section 7-I contains the list of all frequency bands used for international civil aviation. It provides a summary of the allocations to aeronautical services and their main aviation use.

Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy This graph looks like a bit of a mess here on screen. This is actually one of 7 foldout charts in the handbook, giving a a graphical overview of frequency bands which have been allocated to aeronautical use. The seven graphs also provides a reference to non-aeronautical allocations, when those share the same bands. 7 detailed graphical presentations of the aeronautical frequency bands

Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy Section 7-II Civil aviation frequency allocations: Primary allocation Has priority over a secondary allocation Secondary allocation Shall not cause harmful interference to a primary allocation and must accept interference from a primary allocation – at any time Section 7-II starts with a description of the allocations and information on the status of these allocations. It clarifies the terms allocation, allotment and assignment. It also clarifies the difference between primary and secondary allocations, and it explains additional and alternative allocations. Points to Emphasise: Important - In the case a frequency band is shared between allocations, a primary allocation always has priority over a secondary allocation. When the band is shared between two services with a primary status, both services have equal right to operate and frequency assignments to each of these services need to protect the other service from harmful interference. The relationship between services provided by two or more allocations sharing a frequency band, can be regulated through a footnote to the table of frequency allocations. Such regulation can for instance define a maximum limit on the interference from one [primary] service into the other [primary] service. {This is a technique often used when an allocation to a non-aeronautical service is made in a band used by an aeronautical service.}

Frequency distribution to
ICAO Radio Frequency Handbook Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy Frequency distribution to French English Spanish Services Attribution (attribuer) Allocation (to allocate) Atribucion (atribuir) Areas Allotissement (allotir) Allotment (to allot) Adjudicación (adjudicar) Stations Assignation (assigner) Assignment (to assign) Assignations (asignar) The distribution of frequencies is realized in the following manner: – Allocations of frequency bands are made to radio services, such as the aeronautical mobile (R) service, the aeronautical radionavigation service or the broadcasting service. Allocations are agreed at ITU World Radiocommunication Conferences and published in the ITU Radio Regulations. – Allotments of frequencies are made to areas. Allotment plans are developed in the ITU and are normally published in Appendices to the Radio Regulations. Allotment plans, such as Appendix 27 to the Radio Regulations are developed at World Radiocommunication Conferences. Appendix 27 provides the ITU allotment plan for the aeronautical mobile (R) service operating in the HF bands. – Assignments of frequencies are made to radio stations. Only States have the authority to assign frequencies to radio stations. Frequencies are: Allocated to Services (Radio Regulations) Allotted to areas (Radio Regulations; allotment plans) Assigned to [radio] stations – (by States, after international coordination is completed)

Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy (6) Section 7-II Civil aviation frequency allocations, continued Layout in Handbook for details on frequency allocations ITU provisions relevant to the allocation ICAO policy statements (established by Council) Description of aeronautical use Commentary (background information) Note that in Revision 5 of the Handbook, the below has been moved to Appendix G: Reference material (ICAO, ITU, Industry Standards (RTCA, EUROCAE) Interference from non-aeronautical sources (if available) Section 7-II comprises the bulk of the material contained in the handbook. This section contains detailed regulatory, technical and background material for all aeronautical frequency bands.

Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation,
ICAO Radio Frequency Handbook Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy MHz 108– Allocation to Services Region 1 Region 2 Region 3 AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION A Footnotes: 5.197 Additional allocation: in Pakistan and the Syrian Arab Republic, the band 108– MHz is also allocated to the mobile service on a secondary basis, subject to agreement obtained under No In order to ensure that harmful interference is not caused to stations of the aeronautical radionavigation service, stations of the mobile service shall not be introduced in the band until it is no longer required for the aeronautical radionavigation service by any administration which may be identified in the application of the procedures invoked under No 5.197A Additional allocation: the band MHz is also allocated on a primary basis to the aeronautical mobile (R) service, limited to systems operating in accordance with recognized international aeronautical standards. Such use shall be in accordance with Resolution 413 (Rev. WRC-07). The use of the band MHz by the aeronautical mobile (R) service shall be limited to systems composed of ground-based transmitters and associated receivers that provide navigational information in support of air navigation functions in accordance with recognized international aeronautical standards. (WRC-07) Example: Frequency allocation for the band MHz as per ITU Radio Regulations Material reproduced from the ITU Radio Regulations is printed in a shaded background. ITU editorial practice prints a primary service in the table with upper case letters; secondary allocations are printed using lower case. The example on this slide indicates that the band 108 – MHz is allocated to the Aeronautical Radionavigation Service on a primary basis. This allocation is applicable in all three ITU Regions and is therefore a global allocation. The aeronautical radionavigation service can use this band on a global basis for radio navigation, an important requisite for aeronautical systems given the global aspect of aviation. Footnotes are also shown. Details can be found in the Handbook.

Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy ICAO POLICY No change to the current allocation to the aeronautical radionavigation service and the aeronautical mobile (route) service (AM(R)S). Deletion of Footnote Ensure conformity with ITU-R Recommendation SM regarding compatibility with FM broadcast services in the band 87.5–108 MHz and ILS/VOR and with ITU-R Recommendation M.1841 for GBAS. Support studies associated with ITU-R Resolution 413 in order to facilitate the use of the frequency band by AM(R)S systems that operate in accordance with international standards. ICAO policy statement as approved by Council for the band: 108 – MHz The Allocation and Footnotes as copied from the Radio Regulations, in this case for the band 108 – MHz, are followed by the official ICAO policy statement for that band. This particular policy statement, states that future ITU Conferences should not change the allocations in this band footnote should be removed from the allocation that the use of the adjacent frequency band by the FM broadcasting service shall be in accordance with ITU_R Recommendation SM 1009 and SM1841 in order to protect ILS, VOR and GBAS that studies mentioned in Resolution 413 are supported by ICAO.

Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy Aviation use: Description of the systems (ILS, VOR, GBAS and VDL Mode 4) using the band 108 – MHz Commentary: Background information on the use of the band 108 – MHz by aviation. The next part of the section on this band, MHz, describes the aviation use. Currently, such use is by ILS, VOR, and GBAS, while frequency assignment planning criteria for use by VDL Mode 4 has also been developed. - In the part “Commentary” the Handbook provides a summary of decisions and discussions pertaining to ILS, VOR, GBAS and VDL Mode 4 at relevant ICAO meetings, including views on the future evolution of these systems.

Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy For information purposes this part also contains the channelling and frequency pairing plan for ILS Localizer and Glide Path.

Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy Additional Technical References in Attachment G: References to relevant material in: ICAO Annex (specifications for ILS, VOR, GBAS and VDL Mode 4) RTCA and EUROCAE standards for airborne equipment ARINC Characteristics ITU-R Recommendations References to information specific to interference from FM broadcasting stations Attachment G of the handbook is supplementary to this section. There you will find Technical information and a list of references relevant to each frequency band. These may be references to other ICAO material, or material from ITU, RTCA, EUROCAE or others. {This material includes details on RF signal protection requirements, transmitter and receiver specifications, operational requirements for availability, continuity and reliability of the navigation systems. This detailed material is to be used in particular when addressing interference that can be caused by other systems. }

Chapter 7 - Statement of frequency allocation, technical details and ICAO policy Section 7-III; Radio Regulations and other material: ITU Constitution and Convention ICAO participates as an observer in an advisory capacity Radio Regulations Administrative provisions No – incorporate technical means to reduce interference No – States can use frequencies in a manner that does not comply with the Radio Regulations – However, such use must protect stations which operate in compliance with the Radio Regulations No – States recognize the safety aspects of radionavigation No – Special consideration to be given to avoid interference on distress and safety services Chapter V Section III – Formation of call signs No – Order of priority of communications Section 7-III contains general information regarding the ITU, the cooperation between the ITU and ICAO, and a number of administrative provisions in the Radio Regulations. ICAO can particpate as “an observer in an advisory capcity”. This status is reserved for specialised agencies of the UN. ICAO can submit Working Papers to WRC’s that can be on the agenda while other observers are able to to submit papers for information only. This chapter addresses several areas about what falls into a state’s purview.

Chapter 8 Future Spectrum Requirements The Handbook identifies future spectrum requirements for: GNSS augmentation GBAS SBAS LAAS/WAAS Synthetic vision HF data link VDL Mode 4 ADS-B Future Communication Systems Chapter 8 needs to be updated. Several of these systems have already been implemented and standarised. ICAO is working on the definition of a Future Communication System. Any future system will take into account the needs of all regions for air/ground communication capacity,. A future system will most likely concentrate on implementation in areas where air traffic is very congested.

Chapter 9 Interference protection considerations Interference issues: Regulatory aspects Management and control of interference Assessment of protection of aeronautical services Some special cases General protection limits for aeronautical services Chapter 9 of the Handbook addresses interference to aeronautical services. “Regulatory aspects” discusses the provisions in the Radio Regulations that define interference, unwanted and spurious emissions, the aviation safety factor and electro-magnetic compatibility. “Management and control of interference”, reviews certain measures to prevent interference. “Assessment of the protection of aeronautical services from interference” includes a review of certain elements to be considered when assessing interference cases. This material is particularly relevant when assessing the effect of spectrum between different services. “Some special cases” addresses the effect of interference that can be caused by ISM equipment Finally, there is a review of some general protection limits for aeronautical services, that have been established.

Chapter 9 Interference protection considerations Regulatory aspects: Harmful interference (RR1.169) Interference which endangers the functioning of a radionavigation service or of other safety services or seriously degrades, obstructs, or repeatedly interrupts a radiocommunication service operating in accordance with Radio Regulations (CS). Safety Service (RR 1.59) Any radiocommunication service used permanently or temporarily for the safeguarding of human life and property. Aviation safety factor 6dB, to be added to the minimum protection level Registration of frequencies Registration provides administrative protection from harmful interference Chapter 9 discusses what is considered interference and what measures need to be taken to prevent interference.

Chapter 9 Interference protection considerations Management and control of interference: International agreement on a regulatory basis ITU Radio Regulations Board System and equipment standards ICAO SARPs RTCA and EUROCAE specifications ITU-R Recommendations Licensing of radio services Licensing conditions can assist in prevention and removal of interference Control and clearance of interference Telecommunication authority within a State ICAO (Regional Office) ITU (Radiocommunication Bureau) Similarly, chapter 9 discusses means available to control, avoid and remove interference. The material in the chapter also discusses the coordination required with states , standards organizations as well as UN agencies.

Chapter 9 Interference protection considerations Assessment of protection of aeronautical services: Subject to analysis (e.g. in case of allocation sharing) Based on interference threshold, established by aviation Aviation safety factor (6 dB) Variables to be considered in assessment / analysis Source of interference Frequency separation Distance separation Receiver susceptibility to interference RF propagation This chapter also provides an overview and some details on the Assessment and Analysis of protection of aeronautical services.

Chapter 9 Interference protection considerations Some special cases: ISM Harmonic relation between ISM frequencies and aeronautical VHF bands VSAT /SNG These systems use small satellite antennas and can be located anywhere; can cause interference in the near vicinity of aircraft (e.g. if used at airports) Here are some special cases: ISM – Industrial, Scientific and Medical equipment is authorized to operate in certain frequency bands. These systems are not intended for radiocommunication purposes but are allowed to radiate electromagnetic energy. Harmonics from these systems can fall into the aeronautical bands. VSAT and SNG (Very Small Aperture Terminals and Satellite News Gathering) stations can normally operate anywhere, including the near vicinity of airports. When operating in the near vicinity of aircraft, these systems can cause interference to radiocommunication and radionavigation, and interference with other on-board electronic systems.

Chapter 9 Interference protection considerations General protection limits for aeronautical services Limits apply only to intra-system interference; can not be used for assessing interference with other systems Use Frequency Band Minimum Signal dB (uV/m) System Planning Protection Ratio DB Suggested Maximum Level of Interfering Signal DB (uV/m) 1 Omega 10–14 KHz 2 NDB 190–850 KHz 37 (1) 15 16 3 HF Comms 2.8–22 MHz 4 ILS Mkr Beacon 74.8–75.2 MHz 46 (1) 20 5 ILS Localizer 108–112 MHz 40 (1) 14 6 VOR 108–118 MHz 39 (1) 13 7 VHF Comms 118–137 MHz 17 8 ILS Glide Path 328.6–335.4 MHz 52 (1) 26 9 ELT 406 MHz 10 DME 960–1 215 MHz 71 (1) 57 11 SSR 1 030–1 090 MHz 12 Primary Radar (23 cm) 1 215–1 350 MHz Satcom (S to E) 1 545–1 555 MHz GPS 1 559–1 610 MHz –160 dBW (3) –137 (2) GLONASS Chapter 9 concludes with a table of general protection limits to aeronautical radio systems. The table is not complete, and these limits are derived from relevant standards or regulations and need to be used with a certain amount of caution, as they may not apply to all types of interference. For individual analysis, the definitive texts for the relevant systems need to be referenced. Finally, The attachments, shown on the slide at the beginning of this presentation, are at the end of the book.

ICAO Radio Frequency Handbook

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