76% of civil aviation organisations agree that greater knowledge and sophistication are being deployed in cyber attacks and RaaS activity.
The Critical Role of Cyber Security in Aviation
The civil aviation sector’s high-profile role in the global economy makes it an attractive target for cyber criminals, nation state actors, and other groups. At the same time, securing the thousands of different technologies across IT and OT – many of which are entirely unique to the aviation sector - demands a high level of expertise and familiarity with relevant technologies.
- 39% of civil aviation organisations consider 'increasing cyber resilience' their top challenge.
- 34% consider 'data theft and misuse' as the top threat to their IT systems.
Addressing Aviation Organisation's Unique Cyber Security Challenges
Unique Technologies and System
Civil aviation depends on extensive IT and OT environments, with many of these systems and technologies being entirely unique to the sector. This makes it hard to find cyber security experts with the relevant experience and knowledge to effectively secure them against threats.
Regulatory Challenges
Civil aviation organisations must meet the regulatory requirements set out by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Information Commissioner’s Officer (ICO). These bodies require that they not only mitigate cyber risk, but that they meet the standards outlined in the Data Protection Act 2018 and GDPR.
Our Award Winning Cyber Security Services for Aviation
Our cyber security and managed security services have helped many of the UK's largest airports increase cyber resilience and defend themselves from cyber threats.
Download the 2026 Cyber Security in CNI Report
Our 2026 report provides a concise, data‑driven view of the biggest challenges and emerging priorities for cyber security leaders across CNI.