RTCA and EUROCAE are pleased to announce SC-239/WG-119 have a firm and durable date to complete the Radar Altimeter Minimum Operational Performance Standard (MOPS). To support this date, DO-399/ED-310, “Standard Guidance Document on Radar Altimeter RF Interference, Rejections, and Tolerance,” is no longer planned for completion.

Following discussions within the RTCA Program Management Committee (PMC) and the EUROCAE Technical Advisory Council (TAC), the Special Committee/Working Group has reshaped its scope to prioritize the publication of a fully validated Low Range Radar Altimeter MOPS. This will ensure that the new standard is ready to support certification approvals and the deployment of compliant equipment. The updated Terms of Reference (TOR) for SC-239/WG-119 were approved during its plenary on January 30, 2025, setting a timeline for Final Review and Comment/Open Consultation (FRAC/OC) no later than September 2026 and a final publication no later than March 2027.

The content developed for DO-399/ED-310 played a valuable role in shaping the Interference Tolerance Mask requirements and setting expectations for the performance of the next generation of Low Range Radar Altimeters. Additionally, this effort contributed to strengthening collaboration between the aviation and telecommunications communities.

We extend our gratitude to all the technical experts seeking firm, high-quality requirements to allow more efficient use of spectrum.

If you would like to join the work of SC-239/WG-119, please reach out to Rebecca Morrison (RTCA) or Mark Watson (EUROCAE).