PART-IS and Aviation: Understand, Comply, and Succeed

PART-IS (Part Information Security), introduced by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), is a key regulation aimed at enhancing cybersecurity within the aviation sector. It mandates the protection of critical infrastructure, flight operations, and data against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. This regulation incorporates "cyber for safety" measures, an innovative approach that sets PART-IS apart from other regulations by focusing on cybersecurity for aviation safety. The goal is to prevent any impact on the aviation sector, ensuring compliance without fines, but with the potential loss of certification if non-compliant. Therefore, compliance is crucial for maintaining existing certifications and continuing operational activities.

Why PART-IS is Critical for Aviation ?

The aviation sector faces significant cybersecurity risks, from communication system breaches to operational safety vulnerabilities. PART-IS addresses these with targeted cybersecurity measures:

Integrated Information Security Management System (ISMS): Embeds cybersecurity at all levels of the organization, proactively managing risks and vulnerabilities.
Incident Response: Streamlined detection and response protocols minimize the impact of cyber incidents on operations.
Continuous Improvement: Regular updates to security practices ensure alignment with evolving threats and new regulations.
Governance and Accountability: Clear roles and responsibilities ensure consistent enforcement of cybersecurity measures.

By adopting PART-IS, airlines, airports, and Air Navigation Service Providers can enhance operational resilience, protect sensitive data, and secure the trust of passengers, regulators, and stakeholders.

How to Comply with PART-IS

To comply with PART-IS, it’s essential to establish a robust governance framework, starting with the development of an information security policy that effectively manages risks and ensures compliance. Thales supports stakeholders by conducting gap analyses and helping them implement an ISMS that meets PART-IS requirements. This ISMS must seamlessly integrate cybersecurity into existing safety management processes, aligning both operational safety and security objectives. Additionally, an effective incident response strategy is crucial. This involves implementing advanced tools such as SIEM and threat intelligence platforms, which enable real-time anomaly detection and allow swift, coordinated responses to minimize disruptions. Finally, information sharing with industry stakeholders and cybersecurity bodies is key to strengthening resilience across the sector, ensuring that emerging threats are addressed collectively.

Compliance with PART-IS, effective by October 2025 for POA/DOA-approved airports and manufacturers, and by February 2026 for other stakeholders, is critical. It enhances operational resilience, protects sensitive data, builds passenger trust, and fosters secure innovation, especially in adopting technologies like digital cabins and connected aircraft.

How Thales Helps Aviation stakeholder Achieve PART-IS Compliance

Thales offers tailored cybersecurity solutions and services designed to help aviation stakeholders navigate the complexities of PART-IS compliance. With over 50 years of experience in both cybersecurity and aviation, Thales brings unparalleled expertise to the aviation industry.

Cybersecurity Consulting Services

Risk assessments and audits are essential for evaluating current security measures and identifying gaps with the regulation. Thales helps airlines by conducting thorough evaluations to highlight vulnerabilities. Additionally, tailored cybersecurity strategies are developed to meet PART-IS compliance, addressing each airline's specific needs, operational environment, and risk profile.

Advanced Technical Solutions

Thales provides advanced technical solutions to strengthen cybersecurity. The AeroSOC (Security Operations Centers) offer continuous monitoring and real-time threat detection, ensuring proactive threat management. Cyber crisis simulations prepare airline teams for potential incidents, while vulnerability management focuses on identifying and addressing risks before they are exploited. In case of an incident, our specialized teams are ready to respond swiftly, containing, analyzing, and remediating any breaches with minimal disruption to operations.

Training and Awareness Programs

Thales offers custom training programs tailored for both technical teams and executive leadership to build a security-aware culture across all levels of the organization. Interactive workshops focus on the nuances of PART-IS.

Integrated Systems Solutions

Thales optimizes your existing security infrastructure to align with PART-IS requirements, ensuring both compliance and continued operational efficiency.

Thales Your Cybersecurity Partner

Thales’ unique combination of cybersecurity expertise and deep industry knowledge makes it the ideal partner for airlines navigating PART-IS compliance:

Proven Expertise: With over 8000 aviation experts and 6000 cybersecurity professionals globally, Thales leads the way in securing the aviation sector.
Global Presence: Thales operates 11 dedicated cybersecurity monitoring centers and 19 consultancy teams worldwide, providing unparalleled support globally.
Tailored Approach: We understand that each aviation actor faces unique challenges. Thales offers solutions and services tailored to your specific needs and operational requirements.