Author(s): Dr. Wazida Rahman, Deepika Kanwar and Sukurulla Shaikh

Abstract: Civil aviation occupies a critical position in global infrastructure, yet it is increasingly exposed to a dynamic threat landscape defined by Acts of Unlawful Interference (AUI). Historically, AUI primarily encompassed kinetic events, such as hijacking and bombing. However, the pervasive integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into mechanical devices has profoundly expanded the attack surface, introducing severe vulnerabilities exploited by advanced threats including cybercrime, insider threats, and the misuse of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)/drones. Key cyber challenges facing the industry include ransomware, Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, data breaches, and sophisticated GPS spoofing. This paper examines the evolution of unlawful interference, detailing the foundational international legal frameworks established by the “International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)”. It scrutinizes modern digital threats, particularly those originating from Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) groups seeking intellectual property, and analyzes system vulnerabilities present in complex, interconnected airport and Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance (CNS) systems. Effective mitigation requires a comprehensive, multi-layered approach that integrates robust physical security protocols with cyber resilience strategies, stringent organizational policies, and enhanced cooperation among diverse stakeholders. Ultimately, the goal is to shift from reactive layering of security measures to a proactive, objective, and resilient security culture capable of managing inherent system uncertainties and sophisticated adversarial adaptation.

DOI: 10.22271/27899497.2025.v5.i2b.154

Pages: 112-117 | Views: 1316 | Downloads: 894

Download Full Article: Click Here