Today, we announced enhancements for certain types of Part 87 Aviation Radio Service applications filed in the Universal Licensing System (ULS).

First, applications can be filed for new or modified aeronautical enroute and flight test stations for authorization to operate with 8.33 kilohertz (kHz) channel spacing.  This enhancement is based on an FCC decision that permits voluntary narrowbanding from 25 kHz channel spacing to 8.33 kHz channel spacing. Narrowbanding aeronautical enroute channels provides the aviation industry with the ability to greatly enhance spectrum efficiency and alleviate congestion. Likewise, narrowbanding benefits flight test stations, which also face increasing frequency congestion.

Also, licensees that hold aircraft station licenses can file transfer of control and assignment of authorizations applications in ULS. This enhancement is based on an FCC decision that removes the prohibition on the assignment or transfer of aircraft station licenses. This change reduces administrative burdens and transactional costs for licensees.

Additional information about both of these changes is located in a Public Notice released today by the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau.