Why is secure communication so important in airports?
Why is secure communication so important in airports?
Air travel has never been safer, but there are many risks involved with airport management and communication systems that need to be taken into account. There are a number of different ways to communicate at airports and other aviation sites, but most lack the security needed for safe operations.
Secure, reliable communication is essential to safe airport management. Airports use many different methods of communication, including radios and VCCS, to enable staff to communicate with one another and ground staff to communicate with air staff.
This article discusses how secure communication is important for airports and what measures airport management can take to improve airport communication security.
Why is strong communications security important?
Secure communication is key for airports because it ensures the safety of passengers and employees both on the ground and in the air. When airport communications are insecure, they are vulnerable to deliberate attacks as well as accidental interruptions – which could disrupt vital communications during take-off and landing.
Improving communications security also helps to reduce costs by avoiding expensive fixes when problems arise with an insecure system or investment in new technology that doesn’t provide enough protection against hackers or other unauthorized access. It’s always easier to protect against potential problems in advance than it is to deal with them as they occur.
What are the risks of insecure communication methods in airports?
There exists a myriad of security vulnerabilities that airport staff should be looking out for. Most airport communication is not encrypted. With this lack of security, unauthorized personnel and other entities can eavesdrop on messages to gather information about airline operations or monitor conversations between staff for insider trading purposes.
Insecure communications could also be hacked to disrupt power grids, or even lead to a terrorist attack by crashing planes into buildings if the airport uses automated takeoff systems that are connected wirelessly with the ground control center.
The risk of data theft is very high when it comes to insecure communication in airports, and hackers could easily find a way to manipulate the airport’s communication system and breach security.
What measures can airports take to reduce the risk of interference?
Airports should implement secure systems that can encrypt all communications. Airports should also regularly monitor their networks for any signs of cyber-attacks and keep track of what information is being accessed by the hackers. Codes can also be implemented so that listeners and the general public don’t understand what’s being communicated over radio systems; though, of course, all staff must receive proper training in all codes before this is carried out.
How Bayanat Engineering can help
At Bayanat Engineering, we specialise in creating technology solutions for airports, airlines, and air traffic offices. Our IT solutions include communications systems include UHF and VHF radios; airband, maritime, and TETRA solutions; VVCS; compliance and legal recorder systems, and more.
If you’re looking for experts in airport IT solutions and communications to design a communications system for your airport that is reliable, efficient, and secure, contact us at Bayanat Engineering today. Our communications experts will be happy to discuss our solutions and help you to create a unique communications landscape to keep your airport safe and functional day in, day out.