Aviation Cybersecurity

As civil aviation becomes increasingly digital and many systems and processes rely on IT and network technologies, cybersecurity has become a key issue . From aircraft technology to passenger data and airport infrastructure, robust security measures and contingency plans must be in place to minimise security risks and the occurrence of outages and data theft. A strong focus on cybersecurity is therefore vital not only to protect passengers, but also to boost public confidence and the economic success of the civil aviation industry as a whole.

Why is cybersecurity important in civil aviation?

Aviation cybersecurity encompasses the protection of all digital systems, data and networks used in civil aviation against malicious attacks, unauthorised access and other cyber-related threats. This includes protecting aircraft, airports, ground stations, passenger data and operational systems from attacks that could jeopardise the safety and functioning of air transport.

All aviation organisations must systematically identify, assess and minimise risks to the security of their systems and data in order to ensure the integrity, confidentiality and availability of these systems at all times.

As we become more interconnected and dependent on digital systems, new threats are emerging. These threats affect safety-critical areas as well as operational and economic aspects. Risks exist both in the air and on the ground, i.e. in aircraft on-board systems, air traffic control systems and airport infrastructure. They are dynamic because attackers are constantly trying to exploit vulnerabilities in different ways. As the industry is highly interconnected, aviation organisations must always be prepared for both direct and indirect threats.

The new EU regulations on information security in civil aviation (EASA Part-IS) and the FOCA’s oversight activities in this area ensure that aviation organisations address this matter adequately and deal with their information security risks in an appropriate, traceable and systematic manner.