Blockchain In the Aviation Industry

Blockchain In the Aviation Industry
The aviation industry is always evolving and changing to include modern technologies. There have been great innovative strides in the past few decades. However, with new technology comes new threats. Two of the biggest challenges in the aviation industry are cybersecurity and customer experience. Blockchain can help with the safety and reinforcement of all three. It is defined as a new way of recording and encrypting information that makes it extremely difficult or even impossible to hack.

Role of Blockchain In Airline Industry

The first big challenge is cybersecurity. New technologies in cockpit communications include controller-pilot data link communications (CPDLC). CPLDC is beneficial because it enhances ATC surveillance and communication. Because of that, mid-air collision risk is greatly decreased and also decreases the amount of non-essential communications on radio frequencies. However, they are not protected. “These communications often contain very sensitive information,” said Jim Kazin, NBAA’s Security Council chairman, flight department captain, and aviation security advisor. “Since the transmissions are not encrypted or otherwise protected, there is a possibility of someone injecting false information.”

Other security threats come from online sources of flight department administration. Digital blockchain documents, remote systems, schedules, information stored in the cloud, and more. Those are all essential for the airline business but are extremely easy to hack and manipulate. 

“Data and software are everywhere within the flight department.” “Almost everything we do is in some type of software-based system. These systems are subject to hacking and data corruption.” Said Kazin. The levels of extra encryption and security added by implementing blockchain would be extremely beneficial to the protection of valuable information. It would eliminate most if not all of the security problems in the aviation cyber universe. Blockchain has not yet been implemented in aviation. However, it is being tested by many airlines.

In an article by Lufthansa Industry Solutions, Dr. Lars Schwabe, Director of Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain states “Blockchain technology is still in its infancy. However, as a neutral information documentation system, it has huge application potential. For example, it could increase transparency in flight maintenance. For this reason, Lufthansa Industry Solutions has initiated the initiative Blockchain for Aviation (BC4A).”

The second challenge in the aviation industry is customer experience. Cybersecurity is a huge part of the customer experience. Customers trust the airlines with all their information. Their passports, social security, credit card information, and much more.

All of that information is very sensitive but is also very easy for hackers to get a hold of. According to a study conducted by ImmuniWeb on cybersecurity, 97 out of 100 of the world’s largest airports have security risks related to vulnerable web and mobile applications, misconfigured public cloud, Dark Web exposure, or code repositories leaks.

A further test of 36 official airport smartphone apps found that 100% of the mobile apps contained vulnerabilities, with 15 security or privacy issues detected per app on average.

These are all serious privacy issues and can easily be secured with new Blockchain technologies. When a customer takes a flight on a partnering airline,  transferring the miles/points can be difficult, lengthy, and have errors. Blockchain’s smart contracts can simplify that process between airlines and increase customer satisfaction. According to BCG.com, the SITA lab is testing a blockchain application that would allow passengers to create tokens on their devices that would be accepted across airports and borders. Another way blockchain technology would help with customer satisfaction is by improving ground operations and online departures.

There are many horror stories about flights being delayed for hours upon hours and causing people to miss their connecting flights, or baggage being sent to the wrong location. Blockchain would safely capture real-time data, keep a detailed flight checklist up to date, and coordinate the activities of ground crews, baggage handlers, maintenance, fuel trucks, and more.

In conclusion, blockchain technology would be a game-changer in the aviation industry. It would protect valuable information and resources, coordinate ground operations, and make it close to impossible for hackers to get into flight systems. This technology will make airlines an overall safer and more streamlined, enjoyable experience for everyone involved.


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