iStock/Narongrit-Doungmanee FCC advances Upper C-band auction procedures By Amber Harrison The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed procedures for Auction 115, the next major step toward introducing terrestrial wireless services in the Upper C-Band. Bidding is tentatively scheduled to begin Apr. 27, 2027, and conclude by the statutory Jul. 4, 2027, deadline. The auction will offer 3,248 flexible-use licenses covering 160 MHz of spectrum from 3.98–4.14 GHz across the contiguous United States and Washington, D.C. The licenses will be divided into eight 20-MHz blocks within each of 406 Partial Economic Areas (FCC-defined regional markets used for geographic spectrum licensing). A separate 20-MHz guard band will remain at 4.14–4.16 GHz. Although the notice addresses auction mechanics rather than aviation-safety requirements, it advances the timeline for wireless deployment immediately below the 4.2–4.4 GHz band used by aircraft radio altimeters. Auction winners will also finance eligible radio-altimeter retrofit rebates through the Upper C-Band Clearinghouse. The FCC’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau is expected to issue a separate proposal by Oct. 6, 2026, addressing rebate categories, amounts, documentation requirements, and claims procedures. That proceeding will be particularly important for vertical aviation operators. Comments on the proposed auction procedures are due Aug. 24, 2026, with reply comments due Sep. 8. VAI will continue monitoring implementation of the Upper C-band framework and advocating for a rebate process that recognizes rotorcraft-specific equipment costs and availability, accommodates aircraft owner–operator arrangements, minimizes administrative burdens, and provides timely reimbursement to operators. Amber Harrison is VAI’s director of regulatory affairs.
