Drones and Cyberattacks Challenge Europe's Aviation Security

Drones and Cyberattacks Challenge Europe's Aviation Security

Rising Threats to European Aviation Infrastructure

Europe’s aviation sector is confronting a growing wave of cyberattacks and drone incursions that have exposed significant vulnerabilities within its critical infrastructure. In recent days, major airports including London Heathrow, Berlin, and Brussels have experienced severe disruptions, notably a ransomware attack that incapacitated check-in systems. Simultaneously, drone activity forced the suspension of flights at Copenhagen and Oslo airports, underscoring the escalating risks to European airspace.

On Monday, Copenhagen Airport halted operations for several hours after drones were detected nearby. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen linked this incident to a series of suspected Russian drone incursions and other disruptions across the continent. A similar drone-related disruption occurred in Oslo, further emphasizing the increasing threat posed by unmanned aerial vehicles to the region’s aviation security.

Surge in Cyberattacks and Hybrid Threats

These events coincide with a marked increase in cyberattacks targeting airlines and airport infrastructure. French aerospace firm Thales reported a 600% rise in such attacks, highlighting the scale and intensity of the threat. The ransomware assault on Collins Aerospace, a critical technology provider for airport check-in systems, caused widespread operational chaos and delays, illustrating how vulnerabilities in the aviation supply chain can have far-reaching consequences.

While investigations into the recent incidents remain ongoing, some officials have suggested possible Russian involvement, a claim Moscow has denied. Jukka Savolainen, network director at the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats, described the attacks as tests designed to assess both the methods and the responses they provoke. He noted, “First is to test how the method works. In this case, it leads to closing down airports. The second testing point is our reaction.”

Experts warn that these so-called “hybrid threats,” which encompass drones, GPS interference, and cyberattacks, are becoming increasingly frequent and sophisticated. Bart Salaets of U.S. cybersecurity firm F5 emphasized the vulnerability of interconnected industries like aviation, stating, “This attack shows just how vulnerable highly connected industries like aviation can be.” Security analysts argue that the recent surge in such activities should prompt regulators to establish clearer guidelines and accelerate efforts to protect critical infrastructure.

Responses and Future Directions

Airlines and airports are increasingly calling on governments to provide stronger leadership in addressing these challenges. Eric Schouten, director of security intelligence at aviation advisory firm Dyami, warned that drone activity is intensifying and unlikely to cease. In response, European governments are enhancing security protocols and seeking greater cooperation with the United States to bolster airspace protection.

Industry players are also adapting by investing in advanced security technologies and forming strategic partnerships. Innovations such as AI-driven anti-jamming systems and resilient positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) technologies are expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening aviation security.

Eurocontrol, Europe’s air traffic control organization, is actively supporting local and national authorities in managing the impact of these incidents. Matthew Borie, intelligence officer at aviation security consultancy Osprey, stressed the importance of dynamic risk assessment and contingency planning, stating, “Operators need to be able to dynamically risk assess their operations, have plans in place for diverts and risk mitigation measures.”

Despite these efforts, the financial and technical challenges of upgrading aviation infrastructure remain substantial. As hybrid threats continue to escalate, experts agree that swift and coordinated action by regulators and industry leaders is essential to enhance the resilience of Europe’s aviation sector.