GPS spoofing – A growing risk for flight safety, by Thomas Hytten, CAA Norway

Article published by Thomas Hytten, CAA Norway
September 2024
 

Interference with GPS signals in the form of jamming has long been a challenge in aviation, but GPS spoofing has now also emerged as a significant flight safety concern for the aviation industry.
 

This type of cyberattack is primarily associated with conflict zones such as the Middle East and Russia/Ukraine. It involves sending out a false GPS signal to deceive navigation systems into reporting the wrong position. The aim is often to disrupt drone navigation, but this can also have severe consequences, especially for aircraft reliant on accurate navigation data. In light of the evolving situation, a revision of the existing regulations from ICAO/EASA concerning flight navigation has been initiated.

A working group has studied the phenomenon and concluded with the following recommendations:
 

• Training: Flight crews must be better trained to detect and handle GPS failures or spoofing incidents. This includes understanding the typical signs of navigation system interference and having a clear contingency plan in case of malfunction.
   
• Technology upgrade: It is necessary to upgrade navigation equipment to make it more resistant to GPS spoofing. Modern systems should be able to detect false signals and use alternative navigation sources when needed.
   
• Improved collaboration: Airlines, air traffic control (ATC), and authorities must work more closely to share real-time information about GPS disruptions. This will ensure that incidents can be handled quickly and effectively.
   
• Redundancy of navigation sources: The working group also recommends using multiple sources of navigation information, such as INS (inertial navigation systems), as a safety net in cases where GPS data is compromised.

For more information, read the full report and recommendations from the GPS Spoofing Workgroup.

Fact Box: What is GPS Spoofing?

GPS spoofing is a form of cyberattack where false GPS signals are sent out to mislead navigation equipment. This can cause a vessel, such as an aircraft, to report an incorrect position and navigate off its planned route. Spoofing can have severe consequences for aviation safety, making it crucial to detect and handle such interference.
 

About OPSGROUP

This Norwegian group with global membership provides support and information to aviation professionals. The group focuses on sharing real-time alerts, risks, and recommendations to improve flight safety and operations. OPSGROUP acts as a network where members can exchange experiences and solutions to current challenges affecting aviation, including threats like GPS spoofing. They offer tools and insights for operators, airlines, and pilots to make flying safer and more efficient.

Read more about OPSGROUP here.

Related EASA contents

EASA partners with IATA to counter aviation safety threat from GNSS spoofing and jamming | EASA (europa.eu).
Global Navigation Satellite System Outages and Alterations | EASA (europa.eu).
EASA updates SIB on GNSS Outage & Alterations | EASA Community (europa.eu).

Refer also to Cybersecurity | EASA Community (europa.eu).