Regulatory Consultation: Proposed Updates to the National Frequency Allocation Plan (PNAF) in Honduras

The National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL) of Honduras has issued a draft resolution proposing significant updates to the National Frequency Allocation Plan (PNAF). These changes aim to harmonize national regulations with international standards, particularly those from the ITU and the FCC, to accommodate emerging technologies in mobile, satellite, and wireless broadband sectors.

Proposed Changes to Regulations and Frequency Allocations

The consultation outlines several modifications to national frequency notes and service attributions:

• Private IMT Systems (2,500-2,690 MHz): Modification of Note HND51A to enable the deployment of private International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) networks. This is intended for dedicated connectivity within private facilities or delimited areas, distinct from public telecommunications services.
• Mobile Satellite Service (S-Band): Update to Note HND49 to include frequency ranges 2,180-2,200 MHz (space-to-earth) and 1,990-2,010 MHz (earth-to-space) for direct communication between compatible terrestrial mobile terminals and satellite stations.
• Expansion of WAS/RLAN (6 GHz Band): Extension of the permitted range for Wireless Access Systems/Radio Local Area Networks (WAS/RLAN). The current range of 5,925-6,425 MHz is proposed to be expanded to cover 5,925-7,125 MHz, aligning with international trends for WiFi 6E and WiFi 7.
• NGSO Satellite Framework: Adoption of technical criteria from the FCC (Report and Order FCC 26-26) regarding spectrum sharing for Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) systems in the 10.7-12.7 GHz, 17.3-18.6 GHz, and 19.7-20.2 GHz bands.

Impact on Manufacturers and Industry Stakeholders

The proposed changes will directly influence the technical requirements for radio devices entering the Honduran market:

• Expanded Certification Scope: Manufacturers of RLAN and broadband wireless devices will be able to seek type approval for equipment operating in the full 6 GHz band (up to 7.125 GHz).
• Technical Parameter Alignment: Certification for these devices will likely follow technical parameters similar to FCC Title 47 Part 15, including specific requirements for transmit power, antenna gain, and dynamic frequency selection (DFS).
• New Device Categories: The inclusion of Private IMT and expanded Mobile Satellite services will necessitate new testing procedures and compliance verification against updated national standards.
• Satellite Terminal Compliance: Operators and manufacturers of NGSO satellite terminals must provide a "Sworn Declaration of Conformity and Commitment" to ensure their systems do not cause harmful interference to GSO or terrestrial services.

Technical Parameters and Testing Procedures

The resolution emphasizes the adoption of "Performance-Based Protection" for satellite links rather than strictly relying on Equivalent Power Flux Density (EPFD) limits. For terrestrial wireless systems, the regulation maintains strict adherence to technical characteristics such as:

• Transmission power limits and power density.
• Antenna gain restrictions.
• Operational prohibitions in specific frequency sub-bands to prevent interference with sensitive services like radio astronomy.

Deadline for Feedback

Interested parties, including manufacturers, type approval agencies, and industry associations, are invited to provide comments and feedback on these proposed changes. The public consultation period is established for the following dates:

• Feedback Period: From July 27, 2026, to August 7, 2026.

Following the review of the comments received, the final resolution will be published in the Official Gazette "La Gaceta," at which point the new regulations will officially enter into force.