Mitigating Cyber Risk in the Aviation Industry
As the aviation industry continues to embrace digital transformation, it also faces a growing and complex threat: cyber risk. For the fourth consecutive year, cyber incidents have been named the top global risk in the 2025 Allianz Risk Barometer, with the aviation industry being a prime target for cybercriminals and hacktivists.
At Price Forbes, our Aviation and Cyber teams have collaborated to provide a comprehensive market update on the evolving cyber threat landscape and the critical role of insurance in mitigating these risks.
Why Aviation is a Prime Target
The aviation industry’s reliance on digital technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), Global Position Systems (GPS), and cloud systems has expanded its vulnerability to attacks. While these innovations enhance efficiency and passenger experience, they also create multiple entry points for attackers. The risk is further amplified by third-party vendors and supply chain partners, whose systems may be less secure but equally critical.
Cyber incidents can lead to operational disruptions, reputational damage, regulatory scrutiny, and significant financial losses. From ransomware attacks that ground aircraft to data breaches exposing sensitive passenger information, the consequences are extensive.
Regulatory Pressure is Mounting
Regulators are imposing stricter cybersecurity mandates worldwide, including the EU’s NIS2 Directive and new laws in Bermuda and Chile. Non-compliance can lead to substantial fines and operational sanctions, making robust cybersecurity a business necessity.
Real-World Incidents Underscore the Risk
Recent cyber events have exposed the vulnerabilities in aviation:
- Boeing suffered a ransomware attack in late 2023, with 45GB of sensitive data leaked.
- AerCap and Willis Lease Finance Corp were both targeted by ransomware groups in 2024.
- Los Angeles International Airport experienced a breach that compromised millions of customer records.
- Argentina’s Airport Security Police had payroll systems breached in early 2025.
These incidents are not isolated. They are part of a broader trend that demands proactive risk management.
Managing the Risk
To counter these threats, aviation businesses are urged to adopt a comprehensive security approach. This includes securing endpoints, training staff to identify phishing attempts, segmenting networks to contain breaches, and managing third-party risks. Developing a clear incident response plan is also crucial for rapid recovery and maintaining regulatory compliance.
The Role of Cyber Insurance
In the aviation industry, cyber insurance is a critical component of risk management. Policies, with coverage limits reaching up to $200 million, can provide financial protection against legal costs, ransomware payments, and business interruption. Beyond financial security, these policies offer access to expert resources to effectively manage incidents and ensure business continuity.
Act Now
Cyber threats are not a future risk; they are a present reality. Don’t wait for an incident to expose vulnerabilities in your operations. Our team at Price Forbes is ready to help you assess your exposure, review your insurance portfolio, and build a resilient cyber strategy
Contact us today to arrange a webinar or consultation with our Aviation and Cyber specialists
