FAA Deploys 'Comprehensive Approach' as U.S. Braces for Potential Russian Hacking

The agency says it is collaborating closely on cybersecurity with the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, airports, and airlines.

Kimberly Johnson

Wednesday, March 30, 2022 at 04:49 PM ET

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Aspiring controllers undergo training at the FAA’s Oklahoma City training center. [Courtesy: FAA]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA is implementing a "comprehensive approach" to secure U.S. air traffic facilities and aircraft systems against potential Russian cyberattacks, collaborating with government agencies, airports, and airlines.
This heightened focus is in response to U.S. government warnings of potential Russian cyberattacks on critical infrastructure following sanctions related to the Ukraine invasion.
Cybersecurity experts emphasize the broad attack surface within the aviation industry, particularly ground systems, where ransomware could significantly disrupt flight operations, highlighting the need to prioritize critical system defenses.

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The FAA says it is deploying a “comprehensive approach” to securing air traffic facilities amid heightened warnings of possible Russian cyberattacks on U.S. businesses and infrastructure.

“The Federal Aviation Administration is responsible for securing systems and services at its air traffic facilities and has a comprehensive approach to protect them from cybersecurity threats,” a spokesperson from the FAA told FLYING.