How Part-IS & ISMS Solutions Mitigate Aviation Cybersecurity Risks

The aviation industry is soaring into a digital future, with smart airports, e-enabled aircraft, and interconnected systems driving efficiency and innovation. However, this digital transformation comes with a turbulent downside: a rapidly evolving cybersecurity threat landscape. In 2025, aviation faces unprecedented cyber risks that could disrupt operations, compromise safety, and erode public trust.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) Part-IS regulation, a cornerstone of aviation cybersecurity compliance, provides a structured framework to mitigate these threats. Below, we explore the top five cybersecurity risks facing aviation in 2025, explain them in simple terms, and highlight how Part-IS, supported by a partner like Aero Compliance Solutions, helps address them.

1. Ransomware Attacks: Locking Critical Systems

What Is It?

Imagine a digital padlock suddenly blocking access to an airline’s ticketing system or an airport’s baggage handling software. Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts critical systems or data, with cybercriminals demanding payment (often in cryptocurrency) to unlock them. In aviation, such attacks can ground flights, disrupt operations, and compromise safety and it’s a real concern.

Why It’s a Risk in 2025

Ransomware incidents in aviation have surged, with a 600% increase in supply chain attacks reported in a single year. Notable examples include the 2024 Rhysida ransomware attack on Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, which disrupted ticketing and check-in services, and the 2023 LockBit attack on Boeing, demanding $200 million. As aviation systems become more interconnected, ransomware can spread rapidly, targeting airlines, airports, and air traffic control.

How Part-IS Helps

Part-IS mandates organizations to identify and manage information security risks that impact aviation safety. It requires:

• Risk Assessments: Regular evaluations to pinpoint vulnerable systems, such as outdated software prone to ransomware.
• Incident Response Plans: Structured processes to contain and recover from attacks, minimizing downtime.
• Continuous Monitoring: Real-time detection of suspicious activity to prevent ransomware from spreading.

Aero Compliance Solutions’ Role

Aero Compliance Solutions simplifies Part-IS compliance by conducting thorough risk assessments and developing tailored incident response strategies. Their expertise ensures that airlines and airports can quickly identify ransomware vulnerabilities, implement robust defences like endpoint protection, and train staff to recognize phishing attempts—a common ransomware entry point. By partnering with ACS, organizations gain access to cutting-edge tools and 24/7 support to keep systems secure and operational.

2. Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: The Weakest Link

What Is It?

Think of the aviation industry as a chain of partners—airlines, airports, software vendors, and maintenance providers. A cyberattack on one partner, like a vendor’s software, can ripple through the entire chain, compromising critical systems. This is called a supply chain attack.

Why It’s a Risk in 2025

Aviation relies heavily on third-party vendors for IT and operational technology (OT) systems. A 2024 Security Scorecard report found that aviation-specific software vendors scored a low 83/100 in cybersecurity, posing significant third-party risks. The 2020 SolarWinds attack, which affected multiple sectors, showed how supply chain vulnerabilities can have far-reaching impacts. In 2025, sophisticated attacks targeting vendors are expected to intensify.

How Part-IS Helps

Part-IS emphasizes supply chain security by requiring:

• Vendor Risk Assessments: Evaluating third-party partners for cybersecurity weaknesses.
• Strict Access Controls: Limiting vendor access to critical systems to prevent unauthorized entry.
• Incident Response for Supply Chain Scenarios: Plans to address breaches originating from partners.

Aero Compliance Solutions’ Role

Aero Compliance Solutions streamlines supply chain risk management by auditing vendor security practices and ensuring compliance with Part-IS standards. They help organizations implement zero-trust security models—where no partner is automatically trusted—using tools like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and network monitoring. Aero’s expertise reduces the risk of supply chain breaches, safeguarding the entire aviation ecosystem.

3. AI-Powered Cyberattacks: Smart Threats

What Is It?

Picture a cybercriminal using artificial intelligence (AI) to create fake videos or emails that look so real they trick airline staff into sharing passwords. AI-powered attacks use machine learning to exploit vulnerabilities faster and more convincingly than traditional methods, such as creating deepfakes or automating phishing campaigns.

Why It’s a Risk in 2025

AI is a double-edged sword in aviation. While it enhances efficiency, it also empowers cybercriminals. In 2025, AI-driven attacks are expected to target flight management systems, passenger data, and even air traffic control. Deepfake technology could impersonate staff, bypassing security, while AI-powered malware can adapt to evade detection. The dynamic nature of these threats makes them hard to counter with conventional defences.

How Part-IS Helps

Part-IS encourages proactive adoption of advanced technologies to counter AI threats, requiring:

• AI-Driven Threat Detection: Using AI to spot anomalies in real-time, such as unusual login patterns.
• Continuous Risk Management: Updating defences to keep pace with evolving AI threats.
• Employee Training: Educating staff to recognize AI-generated phishing or deepfake attempts.

Aero Compliance Solutions’ Role

Aero Compliance Solutions leverages AI-driven security tools to align with Part-IS requirements, helping organizations detect and respond to AI-powered threats. They provide training programs to teach employees how to spot sophisticated phishing emails or deepfakes. Aero’s tailored solutions ensure that airlines and airports stay ahead of AI-driven cybercriminals, maintaining safety and compliance.

4. Insider Threats: Risks from Within

What Is It?

Imagine an employee accidentally clicking a malicious link or, worse, intentionally leaking sensitive data. Insider threats come from people within the organization—whether negligent, malicious, or compromised—who endanger systems and data.

Why It’s a Risk in 2025

Human error remains a weak link in aviation cybersecurity. In 2025, insider threats are a growing concern due to increased access to sensitive systems and the rise of remote work. A 2023 report noted that 60% of people reuse passwords across platforms, making it easy for attackers to exploit compromised credentials. Malicious insiders could also sell data or sabotage systems, causing significant harm.

How Part-IS Helps

Part-IS addresses insider threats through:

• Behavioural Analytics: Monitoring tools to detect suspicious employee activity, like unusual data access.
• Cybersecurity Awareness Training: Educating staff on secure practices, such as strong passwords and phishing awareness.
• Access Controls: Limiting employee access to only what’s necessary for their role (least-privilege principle).

Aero Compliance Solutions’ Role

Aero Compliance Solutions empowers organizations with Part-IS-compliant insider threat programs. They implement behavioural analytics to flag risky actions and provide engaging training to foster a security-conscious culture. Aero’s solutions ensure that employees become a “human firewall,” reducing insider risks while meeting regulatory requirements. 

5. Legacy System Vulnerabilities: Outdated Technology

What Is It?

Think of an old computer running critical airport systems that hasn’t been updated in years. Legacy systems are outdated technologies that lack modern security features, making them easy targets for cyberattacks.

Why It’s a Risk in 2025

Aviation relies on legacy systems, especially in air traffic control and older aircraft. These systems often can’t support modern security protocols or critical updates, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. A 2025 Cybersecurity Dive report called for modernizing air traffic control systems due to their susceptibility to attacks. As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, legacy systems are a glaring weak point.

How Part-IS Helps

Part-IS promotes modernization and risk management for legacy systems by requiring:

• System Inventories: Identifying outdated systems that pose risks.
• Risk Mitigation Plans: Strategies to secure or replace legacy technology.
• Regular Audits: Ensuring systems are updated or protected against known vulnerabilities.

Aero Compliance Solutions’ Role

Aero Compliance Solutions conducts comprehensive system audits to identify legacy vulnerabilities and align with Part-IS mandates. They guide organizations in modernizing critical infrastructure, implementing patches, or using micro segmentation to isolate outdated systems. Aero’s expertise ensures that legacy risks are minimized, enhancing safety and compliance.

Why Partner with Aero Compliance Solutions?

Navigating the complex cybersecurity landscape of 2025 requires more than just compliance—it demands expertise, vigilance, and innovation. Aero Compliance Solutions is a trusted partner that simplifies Part-IS compliance and strengthens aviation cybersecurity. Here’s how they empower organizations:

• Tailored Compliance Plans: Aero crafts customized strategies to meet Part-IS requirements, ensuring seamless regulatory alignment.
• Advanced Technology: They deploy cutting-edge tools like AI-driven threat detection, SIEM systems, and zero-trust frameworks to counter modern threats.
• Training and Awareness: Aero’s engaging programs turn employees into cybersecurity assets, reducing human error and insider risks.
• 24/7 Support: Their round-the-clock monitoring and incident response services keep operations secure and resilient.
• Supply Chain Expertise: Aero audits and secures third-party vendors, strengthening the entire aviation ecosystem.

The aviation industry in 2025 faces a turbulent cybersecurity landscape, with ransomware, supply chain vulnerabilities, AI-powered attacks, insider threats, and legacy systems posing significant risks. EASA’s Part-IS regulation provides a robust framework to address these challenges through risk assessments, incident response plans, and modern security practices. By partnering with Aero Compliance Solutions, airlines, airports, and other aviation stakeholders can simplify compliance, enhance defences, and ensure the safety and resilience of global air travel. In a world where cyber threats are ever-evolving, Aero Compliance Solutions is the co-pilot the aviation industry needs to soar securely.