Disposal & Recycling

All old, obsolete devices, or damaged (cell phones, BlackBerrys, cellular iPads, iPhones, datacards, MiFi’s) must be returned to the NWP to be recycled in an environmentally friendly manner.

Unrequired wireless devices must be transferred from the site to the National Wireless Program (NWP) office in lieu of reporting devices as excess. You can refer to FAA Reutilization and Disposition Process and Procedure Guide October 2020 – Cell Phones and Other Wireless Devices, pages 39-41, for more information on the process for reporting and transferring unrequired wireless devices to the NWP.

Prior to shipping to the NWP, clear the device and reset it to the original manufacturer’s settings. To reset your device, please refer to the user’s manual as it provides instructions for resetting/wiping the device. If you do not have the user's manual, refer to the carrier’s website. Most carrier websites have the device user manual.

Device Disposal Guidance

• Devices listed in FRAMES
• Devices not listed in FRAMES

You may ship using which ever method your organization prefers. Shipping cost is covered by your organization. Please note FedEx guidance or USPS guidance 349.222 on shipping Lithium-ion batteries.

Transport of Lithium Metal and Lithium Ion Batteries

Please ensure you have completed a Cancellation Form found on NWP website for all datacards/Mifi’s and for phones not getting a replacement/upgrade.

Informational Resources

• FAA Order 1830.9A (Cellular/Satellite Device Acquisition and Management dated 9/18/2009)
• FAA Personal Property Reutilization and Disposition Process and Procedure Guide
• Form 4650-12 for Manual Transfer (Note: see the 4650-12 instructional example)