5G network for aerospace sector: an economic review

As the aviation and aerospace industries undergo rapid digital transformation, the adoption of 5G Mobile Private Networks (MPNs) is emerging as a key enabler of operational efficiency, automation, and safety. While the technical benefits of 5G have been widely acknowledged, there is limited research offering economic justification for deploying such networks in aviation settings. This paper proposes an assumption-based economic assessment framework and applies it to a hypothetical deployment of a 5G MPNs at Heathrow Airport. The analysis integrates financial assumptions—including capital and operational expenditures, as well as projected efficiency gains and revenue improvements—to evaluate investment viability. Core financial indicators such as Net Present Value (NPV), Return on Investment (ROI), Payback Period, and Cost of Inaction (COI) are used to assess performance under realistic conditions. The results highlight the potential for strong financial returns and rapid payback, reinforcing the strategic value of private 5G networks for airport operators and aviation stakeholders. The proposed approach offers a reference model for infrastructure planners seeking to quantify the benefits of 5G deployment in similar contexts.