“Hammer Down”: FCC Moves to Open 50 MHz of Spectrum for Drones

October 29 vote will also consider new restrictions on foreign electronics testing and certification laboratories.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) plans to vote on new rules that would open 50 MHz of low-band spectrum for commercial drone operations. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr announced the upcoming vote in an October 7 blog post titled “Hammer Down.”

The Commission will also consider new restrictions on foreign electronics testing laboratories and certification bodies. Both measures are scheduled for a vote at the FCC’s October 29 open meeting.

Expanding Spectrum Access for Commercial Drones

The proposed order would remove a regulatory restriction that has prevented drones from operating in the 800 MHz cellular band.

“To open the path for even more American drone companies, we will vote on an Order to open a huge swath of spectrum for commercial drone operations,” Carr wrote.

Carr described the existing restriction as an unintended barrier to drone operations.

“This item advances the FCC’s efforts to promote U.S. drone leadership by modernizing a rule that has unintentionally prevented drones from operating in the 800 MHz band.”

The change would open access to 50 MHz of existing low-band spectrum. Lower-frequency spectrum generally provides broader coverage than higher-frequency bands under comparable conditions, making it valuable for wireless communications.

For commercial drone operators, access to additional cellular spectrum could expand communications options. Reliable connectivity is particularly important for advanced operations, including flights beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS).

The FCC’s action would address spectrum regulations, not FAA flight requirements. Operators would still need to comply with applicable FAA rules and authorizations.

New Restrictions on Foreign Testing Laboratories

The FCC will also vote on an order to prohibit electronics testing laboratories and certification bodies in countries that do not provide reciprocal recognition to U.S. organizations.

FCC equipment authorization requirements apply to many electronic devices, including drones and their communications equipment. Manufacturers often rely on accredited laboratories to demonstrate compliance before marketing products in the United States.

Carr said that 82% of electronics were tested in a single country that does not recognize U.S. laboratories in 2025. The figure covers electronic equipment broadly, rather than drones specifically.

The proposed restrictions could affect manufacturers that rely on testing and certification services in countries covered by the new rules. The practical impact will depend on the final order’s scope and implementation requirements.

FCC Vote Scheduled for October 29

Both measures are part of a broader FCC agenda addressing wireless spectrum, national security, and telecommunications regulation.

The spectrum order could remove an existing barrier to commercial drone connectivity. The laboratory restrictions could introduce new compliance considerations for equipment manufacturers.

The Commission is scheduled to consider both orders on October 29. The final adopted language will determine their specific requirements and effective dates.

Read more:

• Court Challenge Could Shape FCC Authority Over Previously Approved Drones
• FCC Grants Covered List Exemption for Dronus K500L Drone System
• FCC Clears Nationwide Test of Cellular Networks for Drone Safety