Policy & Regulation News

Via Satellite

FCC authorizes Globalstar’s C-3 satellite constellation for direct-to-device services

The Federal Communications Commission has authorized Globalstar to operate its third-generation C-3 constellation in mobile satellite services spectrum. The system is intended to provide direct-to-device connectivity for smartphones, advancing Globalstar’s satellite service plans under the regulatory authority granted by the FCC.

AINonline

FAA proposes special operating rules around Palm Beach airport after Secret Service request

The FAA has proposed special operating rules around Palm Beach airport after the U.S. Secret Service requested changes. The available report does not specify the proposed measures or their operational scope, leaving the impact on airport and airspace users unclear.

Washington Post

Opinion: Privatized air traffic control offers an alternative path to safer skies

The opinion piece argues that Democrats’ preference to slow modernization and Republicans’ call for government ownership are not the only choices for air traffic control. It advocates privatization as a better route to safer skies, though the supplied summary does not detail the proposed model or supporting evidence.

Reuters

Brazil's airlines fear tax rise impact as election nears

Reuters

Brazilian airlines warn consumption-tax reform could raise fares and slow passenger growth

Brazil’s airline industry fears an impending consumption-tax reform, due to take effect next year, could push fares higher and curb passenger growth. Uncertainty is compounded by a tight presidential election, leaving carriers facing policy risk as they plan for the change.

Space Intel Report

Regulators remain divided on cross-border rules for satellite direct-to-device service

International regulators have yet to reach consensus on how to govern satellite direct-to-device (D2D) services near national borders, where multiple countries’ networks overlap. The dispute centers on interference risks when satellite providers use spectrum assigned to mobile network operators, with agreement still elusive 13 months before the ITU’s WRC-27.

Space Intel Report

13 months before ITU WRC-27, satellite & terrestrial operators are far from agreement on rules for D2D at national borders

Reuters

High activity

Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica and Vodafone explore joint bid for European satellite spectrum

The four operators signed a letter of intent to explore bidding together for European mobile satellite service spectrum in the 2-GHz band and to seek a satellite partner. The proposed collaboration aims to support sovereign direct-to-device connectivity as the carriers respond to competition from satellite services such as Starlink.