Boingo Deploys CBRS at Dallas Love Field Airport

Boingo Wireless on July 23, announced that it has successfully deployed a private LTE cellular network on the 3.5 GHz Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) band at Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL). The launch is part of a commercial trial and marks the first known CBRS deployment at a major U.S. airport. DAL services more than 15 million passengers annually.

“Boingo’s technical demonstration of CBRS at DAL is a pivotal step forward for the wireless industry as the technology will help accommodate connectivity in the 5G era,” said Derek Peterson, chief technology officer, Boingo. “Our neutral host CBRS network operates as a private LTE solution with maximal radio resource utilization, expanding wireless coverage and capacity at DAL for streamlined airport operations. The technology is part of Boingo’s wireless convergence roadmap that leverages licensed, unlicensed and shared spectrum. We applaud the Dallas team for their commitment to innovation and look forward to continued momentum with the trial to maximize CBRS’ full potential.”

CBRS is a U.S.-based initiative that dynamically allocates 3.5 GHz on demand in a shared spectrum model. It is viewed as key spectrum for 5G networks. Large public venues, such as airports and stadiums, are strong candidates for CBRS deployments as the band offers favorable mid-band spectrum for seamless and secure connectivity in dense, high-trafficked areas, and is considered more cost effective than traditional LTE that relies on licensed spectrum. The FCC granted Boingo Special Temporary Authority (STA) to conduct the CBRS trial at DAL.

“DAL is proud to be part of this trailblazing achievement and lead the airport industry into the future of wireless innovation,” said Mark Duebner, director of aviation, Dallas Love Field, Dallas Airport System. “As our wireless partner, Boingo has delivered cellular DAS, Wi-Fi and Passpoint solutions that help power an outstanding passenger experience. We are now excited to embrace next generation technologies like CBRS to maintain our leadership position.”