During large, complex special entertainment events, more than one EWA member may provide communications support. Such was the case when two members supported the Desert Trip Festival at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. The show featured Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, and other iconic acts from the 1960s. The festival drew 70,000 attendees.
One member provided communications for security, while another EWA member provided communications for operations. To obtain approval and authorizations for these communications systems, both members turned to EWA secure a Special Temporary Authority (STA). An STA permits the temporary use of a station for fewer than 180 days and is an ideal licensing solution for a special event such as a festival. EWA filed the requests, and the FCC granted the STAs well in advance of show time!