In case you missed it, we’ve got some changes to the 60 meter band.
As of February 13, 2026, the FCC has updated 60-meter band rules for U.S. amateur radio operators (General class or higher), adding a new 15 kHz wide, non-channelized segment (5351.5–5366.5 kHz) with a 9.15-watt ERP limit. Four of the original five channels remain for 100-watt PEP operation, while the previous 5358.5 kHz channel (channel 3) is replaced by this new sub-band.
Key Changes to 60-Meter Band (Effective Feb 13, 2026):
- New Segment: A contiguous, non-channelized (VFO) band from 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz is now available.
- Power Limits:
- New Segment: Maximum of 9.15 watts Effective Radiated Power (ERP).
- Existing Channels: The four remaining channels (5332, 5348, 5373, 5405 kHz) still allow 100 watts PEP.
- Modes & Bandwidth: Upper Sideband (USB), CW, and Digital modes are permitted, with a maximum bandwidth of 2.8 kHz.
- Channel Changes: The channel at 5358.5 kHz is removed, as it is now part of the new 5351.5–5366.5 kHz subband.
- Eligibility: General, Advanced, or Amateur Extra class licensees.
The updated ARRL band plan chart can be found here:
https://www.arrl.org/files/file/Regulatory/Band%20Chart/Hambands4_Color_11x8_5.pdf
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