Cybersecurity in Airports: A Growing Need | Cyber Solutions By Thales

Understanding the Growing Need for Cybersecurity in Airports

With the airport sector rebounding post-pandemic, airports are processing 4.35 billion passengers and 57.8 million metric tons of cargo annually in 2023, connecting people, cultures, and economies while employing over 6 million people worldwide. As airports undergo rapid digital transformation, their reliance on advanced IT and OT systems increases exposure to cyber threats. From check-in and baggage handling to air traffic control, these systems are crucial for operations but also attract cybercriminals.

Key Drivers Behind the Growing Need for Airport Cybersecurity

Digital Transformation: Airports are embracing advanced technologies such as IoT and AI, increasing efficiency but also introducing new vulnerabilities.
Rising Cyber Threats: Cyberattacks on airports have surged, aiming to disrupt operations, steal passenger data, or compromise sensitive information. Notable cases include recent DDoS attacks and breaches at major airports like San Francisco and Heathrow.
Regulatory Pressure: Compliance with global standards, such as the NIS2 Directive and GDPR, requires airports to implement robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard operations and sensitive data.

As a result, the global airport cybersecurity market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.5% from 2023 to 2030, underlining the critical need for innovative solutions tailored to this unique and complex environment. Airports must adapt to these challenges to ensure passenger safety, operational continuity, and regulatory compliance.

Key Cybersecurity Challenges Facing Airports

1. Operational Threats

Cyberattacks targeting critical airport systems like air traffic management, baggage handling, and ticketing platforms pose serious risks to global aviation operations. These disruptions can lead to flight delays, cancellations, and even jeopardize passenger safety, highlighting the urgent need for resilient security systems that protect these essential services.

2. Data Security

Airports store vast amounts of sensitive data, from passengers' personal details to financial transactions. Breaches of this data could expose confidential information, leading to identity theft, financial fraud, and reputational damage for airlines and airport operators. Ensuring robust data protection measures is critical to safeguard privacy and maintain passenger trust.

3. Compliance Costs

Airports must navigate a complex web of international cybersecurity regulations, including GDPR and industry-specific standards. Staying compliant with evolving requirements demands ongoing investment in cybersecurity infrastructure, training, and monitoring. Non-compliance can result in heavy fines and damage to an airport’s reputation.

4. Integration Issues

The integration of cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions into existing airport infrastructures is a challenging task. Airports must ensure that advanced security technologies do not disrupt daily operations or interfere with legacy systems. Finding solutions that seamlessly enhance security without affecting efficiency is a key challenge for airport management.

Thales Cybersecurity Solutions for Airports: Comprehensive Protection Against Evolving Threats

Thales provides a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity solutions tailored to protect airport operations from growing cyber threats. With advanced technologies, specialized expertise, and seamless integration, Thales equips airports with the tools and strategies necessary to secure their critical infrastructure.

Consulting Services: Expertise You Can Trust

Cyber Risk Assessment: Identifying Vulnerabilities
Thales conducts tailored assessments of IT and OT systems to uncover vulnerabilities and potential threats, ensuring airports are prepared for any scenario. This crucial step enables informed security strategies and proactive decision-making.

Regulatory Compliance and Strategic Guidance
With over 40 years of aviation expertise, Thales helps airports meet global regulations like GDPR, NIS2, and ICAO. Our consultants develop actionable frameworks to protect passenger data and maintain seamless operations.

Cybersecurity Strategy Development & Implementation
Thales creates adaptable cybersecurity strategies integrating risk management, incident response, and long-term protection. Our solutions help airports address current threats while building resilience for the future.

Cyber Training & Awareness: Empowering Airport Teams
Thales offers tailored training programs in flexible formats, including realistic simulations in our 11 global cyber labs. Airport teams gain hands-on experience responding to real-world cyber threats, enhancing skills across all staff levels.

Detect & Respond Services: Proactive Security Measures

Cyber Threat Intelligence and Internet Monitoring

Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI)
Our Cyber Threat Intelligence service provides airports with actionable insights into emerging cyber threats, delivered by expert analysts. By continuously gathering and analyzing global threat data, we enable proactive defense strategies to anticipate and mitigate evolving risks, enhancing airport security posture.

Digital Risk Protection Services (DRPS)
Thales’ DRPS offers comprehensive monitoring of the surface web, deep web, and dark web to identify and mitigate external threats like data leaks, brand impersonation, and targeted online attacks. We protect your airport’s digital presence, safeguarding both passenger data and brand integrity while maintaining trust.

Cyber Detection Services

Managed Detection & Response (MDR) & Cybersecurity Operations Centres (CSOCs)
Thales’ MDR services, coupled with our global CSOCs, provide round-the-clock monitoring and rapid incident response capabilities. Our specialized teams are equipped to swiftly detect, investigate, and contain cyber threats, ensuring minimal disruption to airport operations and protecting critical systems from downtime.

Advanced Threat Hunting services
Our proactive Threat Hunting service actively searches for hidden threats and vulnerabilities within your airport's IT and OT infrastructure. By identifying and mitigating advanced threats that evade traditional detection methods, we strengthen your defense against sophisticated cyberattacks.

Cyber Incident Response Support

Crisis Management & Incident Response Support
Thales supports airports in preparing for and managing cyber crises through tailored crisis management simulations and on-demand expert assistance. We guide your team through the entire incident lifecycle—from initial response to recovery—ensuring rapid resolution and compliance with regulatory reporting obligations.

Digital Forensics & Incident Response (DFIR)
Thales’ DFIR service combines proactive retainer options and on-demand expertise to assist airports in the detection, analysis, and containment of cyber incidents. Our DFIR team provides expert support in investigating security breaches, performing root-cause analysis, and restoring operations swiftly to minimize downtime.

Continuous Threat Exposure Management

Risk-Based Vulnerability Management
Thales offers a proactive Risk-Based Vulnerability Management service tailored to airport operations, prioritizing vulnerabilities based on their potential impact and exploitability. Using advanced assessment tools and real-time threat intelligence, we help identify, assess, and remediate weaknesses in your IT and OT systems. This targeted approach ensures that resources are allocated efficiently to address the most critical risks, reducing exposure and enhancing your cybersecurity resilience.

Defense Stress Testing
Our Defense Stress Testing service rigorously evaluates the robustness of your airport’s cybersecurity defenses through simulated attacks and penetration testing. By replicating real-world cyberattack scenarios, this service identifies gaps in your infrastructure and response mechanisms. These controlled exercises enable airports to strengthen their security posture, fine-tune incident response plans, and prepare teams for potential crises, ensuring operational continuity under pressure.

Thales Integration Services: Bridging Technology and Security

Third-Party Technology: Ensuring Compatibility and Security

Thales ensures integration of third-party technologies into your airport’s IT and OT environments without compromising operational efficiency or security. Our experts evaluate and validate external systems for compliance with aviation-specific standards, safeguarding compatibility with existing infrastructure. By addressing potential vulnerabilities introduced by third-party solutions, we help airports maintain robust cybersecurity while leveraging innovative technologies to enhance performance and passenger experience.

Why Airports Trust Thales: A Cybersecurity Partner Like No Other

At Thales, we combine over a century of experience in aeronautics with world-class cybersecurity expertise to offer airports cutting-edge, tailored solutions that secure operations and ensure passenger safety. This unique dual capability allows us to address the complex challenges airports face in digital security, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

Thales Recognized as Frost & Sullivan's 2024 European Company of the Year in Cybersecurity for Airport Security

Thales is honoured to be named Frost & Sullivan's 2024 European Company of the Year in Cybersecurity for Airport Security. This recognition underscores our leadership in delivering innovative, tailored solutions designed to safeguard airport infrastructures, networks, and operations against an ever-evolving threat landscape.

Our award-winning approach integrates advanced security technologies with deep industry expertise to address the unique challenges airports face. From protecting critical systems to ensuring regulatory compliance and enhancing passenger safety, Thales provides comprehensive cybersecurity solutions that empower airports to operate securely and efficiently.

Partner with Thales and benefit from the trusted expertise recognised across the industry. Together, we build resilient airport ecosystems, ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.

Global Leadership and Unmatched Expertise

Securing 70+ Airports Worldwide: Trusted by leading airports to protect critical infrastructure and enable smooth operations.
Over 6,000 Cyber Experts and 8,000 Aeronautical Professionals: Our team integrates deep industry knowledge with advanced security technologies to safeguard airport ecosystems.
11 Cyber Security Operations Centers (CSOCs): Strategically located worldwide to provide real-time monitoring, threat detection, and response.

Tailored Innovation for Airports

Presence in 30+ Countries: We understand the unique needs of regional and international airports, delivering localized support and solutions.
Specialized CERT and CTI Teams: Our dedicated teams track emerging threats and provide actionable intelligence, enabling airports to stay ahead of cyber risks.
Integration Expertise: From air traffic systems to passenger services, we deliver seamless solutions that prioritize safety, efficiency, and resilience.

A Commitment to Secure Digital Transformation

Thales is not just a service provider—we are a trusted partner in airports' digital evolution. Through continuous investment in research and development, we ensure that your airport remains secure, operationally efficient, and future-ready in an increasingly connected world.

Cyber for Airports