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FCC Opens 800 MHz to Drones

October 30, 2026

1 min read

Key Takeaways

FCC votes to allow drones in 800 MHz Cellular band.
Decision ends 1991 airborne ban.
BVLOS flight still awaits FAA Part 108 rule.

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Strategic Implications

This decision may indicate a shift in regulatory support for drone operations, potentially expanding their use in various industries. The move could suggest increased confidence in drone technology and its ability to coexist with other wireless communications, which may lead to further integration of drones into commercial and private activities.

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What Happened

Regulatory Shift Expands Drone Spectrum Access

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has voted unanimously to allow drones to use the 800 MHz Cellular band, ending a 35-year ban. This decision opens up new spectrum for drone command, control, communication, and payload links. However, routine flight beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) still requires the FAA’s Part 108 rule, which is pending. The move was supported by several organizations, including AT&T, Verizon, Amazon, and Red Cat, as reported by DroneXL.

Source | Originally Published: October 29, 2026

Companies Mentioned

Federal Communications Commission AT&T Verizon Amazon Red Cat DJI CTIA Ondas AUVSI

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FCC Opens 800 MHz to Drones

October 30, 2026

1 min read

Key Takeaways

FCC votes to allow drones in 800 MHz Cellular band.
Decision ends 1991 airborne ban.
BVLOS flight still awaits FAA Part 108 rule.

Sign in to view key takeaways Get full access to in-depth analysis and key takeaways.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Key Takeaways.

Strategic Implications

This decision may indicate a shift in regulatory support for drone operations, potentially expanding their use in various industries. The move could suggest increased confidence in drone technology and its ability to coexist with other wireless communications, which may lead to further integration of drones into commercial and private activities.

Sign in to view strategic implications Get full access to strategic analysis and expert insights.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Strategic Implications.

What Happened

Regulatory Shift Expands Drone Spectrum Access

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has voted unanimously to allow drones to use the 800 MHz Cellular band, ending a 35-year ban. This decision opens up new spectrum for drone command, control, communication, and payload links. However, routine flight beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) still requires the FAA’s Part 108 rule, which is pending. The move was supported by several organizations, including AT&T, Verizon, Amazon, and Red Cat, as reported by DroneXL.

Source | Originally Published: October 29, 2026

Companies Mentioned

Federal Communications Commission AT&T Verizon Amazon Red Cat DJI CTIA Ondas AUVSI