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KAUST Mathematical Model Tackles 5G Interference With Aircraft

The simulations showed that one tower inside the exclusion zone could reduce 5G efficiency by 20%, and up to 50% with three towers.

Published

1 year ago

August 28, 2025

Nour Nasir

kaust mathematical model tackles 5g interference with aircraft

As 5G networks expand worldwide, concerns over aviation safety have sharpened. At the center is the risk that 5G signals may interfere with aircraft radio altimeters — instruments critical for determining altitude during landings and in low-visibility conditions. A research team at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has now come up with a mathematical model to prevent such conflicts, aiming to protect aviation systems while preserving strong network performance.

The study, published in IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications, introduces the idea of an ideal exclusion zone. These zones define areas near airports where higher-frequency 5G signals should be restricted to reduce interference. The approach offers regulators a framework for balancing passenger safety with mobile connectivity demands.

Led by Professor Mohamed-Slim Alouini, the KAUST team is the first to use stochastic geometry — a mathematical tool for modelling random network layouts — to forecast how 5G transmissions might overlap with radio altimeter signals. “5G operates near the same bandwidth as aircraft radio altimeters, which may cause signal interference,” explained Alouini. “This highlights the need to establish exclusion zones to reduce interference levels”.

The research suggests that triangular-shaped exclusion zones provide the best compromise, offering effective shielding for altimeters while limiting the impact on mobile networks. Within these areas, regulators could allow only lower-frequency signals, keeping higher-frequency bands that are more prone to interference outside the zone.

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Simulation results underscored the stakes. A single 5G tower placed inside the exclusion zone was shown to reduce overall efficiency by 20%, while three towers could slash performance by as much as 50%.

The project, supported by Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST), positions the Kingdom at the forefront of a global debate. As countries refine their 5G rollout strategies, KAUST’s framework could help regulators worldwide protect aviation safety without stalling digital infrastructure progress.

Related Topics:5G Aviation KAUST Saudi Arabia

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New Disney+ Streaming App Has Officially Launched In The UAE

The app’s recommendations now factor in what’s popular in the UAE, and a dedicated Junior Mode gives kids their own corner of Disney+.

Published

1 day ago

October 9, 2026

Dana Saadeh

Disney

A new Disney+ app has officially launched in the UAE, and subscribers can now keep watching their favorite titles when they travel. Disney+ says access extends across supported markets in Europe, the United States and beyond.

The app is built around a dynamic homepage and simpler navigation, with recommendations drawn from each customer’s viewing habits and what’s popular in the UAE. Content from Hulu and ESPN is now easier to find alongside Disney+’s own library, the company says. Audio and subtitles come in up to 25 languages, and supported devices get high-quality video and sound.

For families, the app includes Junior Mode, a dedicated, simplified version of Disney+ for younger viewers, built around age-appropriate shows and movies. It sits alongside existing controls such as PIN-protected profiles, customizable content ratings and account notifications when a profile is changed.

The catalog still spans Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, Hulu and FX. Returning series include Season 8 of “The Kardashians,” Season 23 of “Grey’s Anatomy” and Season 38 of “The Simpsons”. Also on the service are the second season of International Emmy and BAFTA Award-winning series “Rivals,” comedy “Only Murders in the Building,” Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Zootropolis 2” and 20th Century Studios’ “Send Help”.

Also Read: Best Video Streaming Services In The Middle East

Marvel Television’s “VisionQuest” is on the way, and Disney’s live-action “Moana” is due later this autumn. Beyond Hollywood, the Turkish title “Halef” is coming to the platform alongside a lineup of Korean entertainment: Korean-Japanese romantic comedy “Merry Berry Love” is streaming now, and “The Remarried Empress” arrives November 4.

Existing subscribers will be prompted to download the new app and sign in with their current credentials, with on-screen steps covering account confirmation and profile setup. Subscriptions start at AED 49.99 per month and can be canceled at any time.

For UAE subscribers planning to travel, the update will likely be well received, but Disney has left one question open. It confirms Europe and the United States as supported markets but doesn’t yet say which others fall under and beyond.