Aviation Security: Cyber Warfare

    There is a rising number of cyber-attacks against airports going on right now as you read this Blog.  Thales, a global aviation security sector, has released there is a 600% increase in cyber-attacks in the coming year.

According to Thales 

"there has been 27 major attacks by 22 ransomware groups between January 2024 and April 2025."

 

The following is a direct quote from U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell

"the FAA Reauthorization bill, which was signed into law, included a subtitle strengthening cybersecurity, including directing FAA to establish a process to track and evaluate aviation cyber threats, and designating a Cybersecurity Lead at the Agency.  And just last year, TSA and FAA both issued cybersecurity requirements for airports, airlines and manufacturers."

    TSA and the FAA both recognize cyber-attacks are a real threat to the aviation industry.  Passengers paying thousands and flight schedules cancelled.  Why are we still seeing an increase in attacks?  There needs to be a better system in place to counter these attacks.   

What can we do to mitigate these attacks?  TSA will need to work hand in hand with a Cyber Security task force and create a behind-the-scenes combatant to these attacks.  Implementing a job with the sole purpose of fishing for these attacks, ensuring candidates have security clearances.  Adding a required clearance for TSA officers to hold would also benefit.  

What do you think would help mitigate these cyber-attacks?

References

Cantwell Opening Remarks at Hearing on Aviation Cybersecurity Threats. (2024, September 18). U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation. https://www.commerce.senate.gov/2024/9/cantwell-opening-remarks-at-hearing-on-aviation-cybersecurity-threats

Thales. (2025). Aviation sector sees 600% year-on-year increase in cyberattacks. Thalesgroup.com. https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/worldwide/aerospace/press_release/aviation-sector-sees-600-year-year-increase-cyberattacks