The aviation industry is facing an alarming rise in cyberattacks, with incidents increasing by 74% since 2020, prompting urgent calls for enhanced cybersecurity measures. This sector, which contributes over $1.9 trillion to the economy and supports 11 million jobs, is now under significant threat, as highlighted during a recent government meeting.

A notable example discussed was the ransomware attack on Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac) last month, attributed to the Reseda Group, believed to be a Russian organization. The attack forced the airport to shut down critical computer systems, disrupting ticketing, display boards, and baggage claims, leading to confusion and delays for passengers. The airport's internal communications and website were also compromised, with the attackers demanding a ransom of $6 million in Bitcoin. Although most systems have since been restored, some functions remain offline weeks later.

The meeting underscored the need for a robust national standard for cybersecurity in aviation, drawing parallels to vulnerabilities in the power grid that led to catastrophic failures in the past. Participants emphasized that consumers often bear the brunt of these technological failures, and it is imperative for both government and industry to take proactive measures to safeguard air travel.

Legislative efforts are underway, with the FAA reauthorization bill recently signed into law, which includes provisions for strengthening cybersecurity protocols. The FAA is tasked with establishing a process to track and evaluate aviation cyber threats, while the TSA and FAA have issued new cybersecurity requirements for airports and airlines.

Experts at the meeting, including cybersecurity professionals from American Airlines, highlighted the increasing sophistication of cyber threats and the urgent need for investment in cybersecurity infrastructure. The discussion also touched on the broader implications of cyberattacks, including the risk to passengers' personal data, as incidents of stolen credit card information and compromised frequent flyer accounts have surged.

As the aviation sector grapples with these challenges, stakeholders are urged to prioritize cybersecurity to ensure the safety and reliability of air travel, while also adhering to consumer protection commitments during disruptions.