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Delhi Flights Face Fake Navigation Signals
1 Dec
Summary
- Aircraft flying into Delhi encountered misleading navigation signals.
- Signal interference incidents have been reported at multiple major airports.
- Aviation sector faces growing digital threats beyond navigation issues.
Several aircraft approaching Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport have encountered deceptive navigation signals, a concern acknowledged by the Civil Aviation Minister. Pilots reported these issues when using satellite-based guidance for Runway 10, reverting to backup procedures upon detecting discrepancies. This problem is not isolated to Delhi, with similar Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference incidents recorded at Kolkata, Amritsar, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai since late 2023.
The broader aviation sector is increasingly vulnerable to digital threats, including widespread ransomware and cyberattacks. In response, the Airports Authority of India is enhancing its cyber-defense systems, adhering to national security guidelines. Protecting aviation networks is an ongoing endeavor, necessitating continuous upgrades to counter emerging threats.
To address the navigation signal disruptions, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has issued advisories and a new reporting protocol for the Delhi region. The Wireless Monitoring Organisation is actively involved in locating the source of false signals. India maintains traditional radio-based navigation systems as a global standard for safety, while also participating in international forums to align with updated safety standards and new technologies.
