The Rising Cyber Threats in Airlines and Aircrafts: Are You Prepared?

Cybersecurity has moved from a back-office concern to the top of the corporate agenda. For airlines, which rely heavily on interconnected systems, safeguarding against cyber threats is not just important—it’s essential. But as cybercriminals grow more sophisticated, what can airlines do to protect their operations and their passengers?

The Escalating Threat to Airline Security

The aviation industry is one of the most interconnected sectors in the world, and that makes it a prime target for cyberattacks. As airline systems continue to evolve, with connectivity until the aircraft, the threat landscape is becoming increasingly complex. Cybercriminals are no longer operating alone—they’re part of well-funded, organized criminal networks that know exactly how to exploit system weaknesses.

Airlines are particularly vulnerable to several types of attacks, including ransomware, phishing, and system hacks that target operational technologies (OT). These attacks don’t just disrupt operations—they can compromise sensitive passenger data, damage reputations, and lead to costly recovery processes.

The Growing Risk to Operations, Data, and Compliance

Cyberattacks on airlines can paralyze operations, leading to flight delays, loss of revenue, and even a loss of customer trust. In 2022, a major airline experienced a cyberattack that severely disrupted its operations, demonstrating how impactful such incidents can be. Airlines also hold vast amounts of sensitive data, including personal details, travel itineraries, and payment information—high-value targets for cybercriminals seeking financial gain.

Moreover, airlines operate in a heavily regulated environment where compliance with data protection standards like GDPR or industry frameworks such as the Civil Aviation Authority’s cybersecurity requirements is non-negotiable. Frameworks like PART-IS, introduced by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), are pivotal in strengthening aviation cybersecurity. By mandating the integration of cybersecurity risk management into safety management systems (SMS), they ensure the protection of critical infrastructure, flight operations, and data against evolving cyber threats. These standards emphasize protecting sensitive information and operational infrastructures from evolving threats. Failure to comply not only increases the likelihood of breaches but also exposes airlines to legal penalties and reputational damage. Aligning cybersecurity strategies with compliance ensures both security and adherence to evolving regulatory standards.

While it may seem like these threats are inevitable, robust security measures can help mitigate the risks. But this isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. As the industry moves toward more digitalized and interconnected systems, airlines must remain vigilant and adopt strategies tailored to the evolving cyber threat landscape.

Key Cybersecurity Strategies for the Aviation Industry

1. Consulting: Building a Resilient Cybersecurity Strategy

Effective cybersecurity starts with a strong foundation. Airline executives need to understand the specific risks associated with their systems and identify gaps in their security infrastructure. Consulting services from cybersecurity experts provide crucial insights into an airline's current threat landscape, compliance requirements, and the steps needed to enhance protection.

Adopting a comprehensive risk assessment process helps airlines define the boundaries of their systems, profile their operational environment, and identify all relevant stakeholders involved in the infrastructure. This includes analyzing existing configurations, policies, and procedures while engaging with technical stakeholders to identify vulnerabilities in sub-systems. By addressing these gaps, airlines can better prepare for emerging threats and enhance the resilience of their operations.

2. Detect & Respond: Cyber Threat Intelligence and Managed Security Services

The key to managing cybersecurity risks is timely detection and rapid response. Airlines must adopt a proactive approach to identifying threats as they happen. With the rise of Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI), airlines can gain access to real-time information thanks to Thales cyber threat intelligence daily monitoring and get actionable insights about threats targeting the aviation sector. This intelligence allows security teams to identify patterns, predict attacks, and strengthen defenses before an incident occurs.

Timely detection is equally critical for Operational Technology (OT) systems, which are essential for flight operations, airport infrastructure, and passenger safety. Threats targeting OT systems can have severe consequences, including operational disruptions and safety risks. Implementing specialized monitoring tools for OT environments ensures that potential risks are identified and addressed promptly, minimizing threats to essential systems and preserving both safety and operational efficiency.

Digital Risk Protection Services (DRPS) are equally crucial for airlines. These services offer an additional layer of trust for clients by monitoring and safeguarding their digital footprint, including brand reputation, exposed credentials, and potential threats in the dark web. DRPS helps ensure that passengers’ data and the airline’s operations are protected, fostering trust and enhancing the overall customer experience.

Once a threat is detected, a fast and coordinated response is critical. By establishing a robust Incident Response Plan and leveraging Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services provided by Thales, airlines can mitigate damage quickly, maintaining operational continuity while containing the threat.

3. Integration: Security Across Every Layer of Airline Operations

Cybersecurity is most effective when it’s integrated into all layers of airline operations. From the booking system and passenger data management to flight management systems and aircraft communications, all touchpoints should be secure. Integrating cybersecurity measures across IT systems, operational technology (OT), and third-party vendor networks ensures that no vulnerabilities are overlooked.

An integrated approach, supported by our experts’ teams, means that security doesn’t operate in isolation. It’s about embedding protection into every layer, from the data center to the aircraft, making the entire organization resilient to cyber threats.

The Path Forward: Building Cyber Resilience

Cyberattacks are inevitable—but how an airline responds makes all the difference. By combining comprehensive consulting, proactive threat detection, and full system integration, airlines can significantly reduce their exposure to cyber risks. But it’s not just about preventing attacks; it’s also about building resilience from the ground to the aircraft. Airlines need to ensure they can quickly recover from attacks and continue providing safe and reliable services.

The future of airline cybersecurity relies on relentless vigilance, continuous advancements, and a comprehensive strategy to safeguard digital systems and sensitive data. While complete immunity from cyber threats may remain out of reach, airlines can significantly enhance their resilience by adopting robust and adaptive measures. Thales, with its unparalleled expertise in cybersecurity and aviation, provides added value through innovative solutions tailored to the unique challenges of airlines. From secure communications and data protection to advanced threat detection systems, Thales empowers airlines to confidently navigate an ever-evolving threat landscape, ensuring a sustainable and secure future for the aviation industry.