Regulatory Frameworks and Safety Standards for Antenna Integration in Aerospace Systems

Abstract

This paper surveys the statutory environment that governs the installation of antennas on civil and military aerospace platforms. After outlining the mandate of the ITU, FAA, EASA, and ICAO, it compares their test programmes for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), electromagnetic interference (EMI), and human RF-exposure. A critical section details the day-to-day problems faced by antenna designers—mass budgets, composite-airframe detuning, dissimilar-material joints, and multi-standard certification. Harmonisation gaps between U.S. and European rules are highlighted, and emerging solutions such as model-based compliance, AI-optimised phased-arrays, and early-stage quantum prototypes are discussed. The paper concludes with a research agenda aimed at reconciling disruptive antenna technologies with a conservative certification culture.