More recently, the government started to auction off frequencies. This is still based on the concept of real estate, which you own. I find it better to think of spectrum in terms of paying for access rights. You have to pay only for the usage. I believe the government has only the right to prevent collisions of users of frequencies, rather than selling the rights to use the ether.
Airplanes fly between cities without having to pay for air space.
The airlines bid for landing gates. Inc. All rights reserved.