Simulation of electromagnetic interference from GSM wireless phones in transport airplanes

The electromagnetic environment of a GSM wireless network inside a transport airplane is investigated to provide quantification of the electromagnetic interference (EMI) threat. An Airbus A319 with an excited 800MHz dipole inside its cabin is modelled in commercial electromagnetic simulation software EMPIRE-XCcel. The received power along window seats is calculated and validated using experimental data. Thereafter, The validated method is applied to the investigation of a GSM cellular network inside a larger aircraft. Simulation results show that the peak of coupled E-field strength in cockpit and cargo bay do not exceed the radiated susceptibility test levels in RTCA/DO-160F. This means the likelihood of interference with onboard devices is low. The research method can be applied to the EMI evaluation of various airplane types and other electrically large and complex structure.