Europe is funding research into a defence against the cyber attack and remote hi-jacking of airliners. Potential threat scenarios are being identified during the current 18-month definition phase of the four-year, €35.8 million ($44.7 million) Security of Aircraft in the Future European Environment (SAFEE) programme, writes Rob Coppinger.
Introduction of in-flight internet access as well as avionics datalinks has created a potential opportunity for computer hackers. "The scenarios developed will be ranked in terms of significance. The most dangerous will not be released to the public," says Philippe LeMasson, head of data management systems for Sagem, one of 32 participants in the SAFEE project.
Scenarios being considered include a terrorist posing as an air traffic controller, and a ground-based hack into the aircraft's computers. LeMasson says voice recognition could be used to counter fake controllers, while the use of multiple firewalls could defeat a hacker.
Source: Flight International