One concerning trend is “spoofing”, a cyberattack that transmits false GPS signals to mislead navigation systems
Global aviation safety is increasingly at risk due to a surge in GPS interference across conflict zones, including India’s borders with Pakistan and Myanmar. A report by OPS Group, a global network of aviation professionals, highlights the dangers posed to passenger planes navigating these regions.
The report, published in September, attributes the rise in GPS interference to intensified security measures and the expanding use of drone technology for illicit activities. One concerning trend is “spoofing”, a cyberattack that transmits false GPS signals to mislead navigation systems.
Recent Incidents Highlight Risks
A recent example of the dangers posed by GPS interference is the Azerbaijan Airlines crash in Kazakhstan, which claimed 38 lives. According to reports, the airliner faced interference while attempting to land near Russian air defence operations targeting Ukrainian drones. While Russia did not directly accept responsibility, it acknowledged firing near the airport during the incident.
In India, the Delhi Flight Information Region has experienced daily GPS spoofing since May 2024. Areas northwest of New Delhi and near Lahore are the worst affected. From mid-July to mid-August, spoofing incidents disrupted 316 flights, placing this region ninth among the top 20 most affected globally.
Border Drone Activity On Rise
The report also underscores the increasing use of drones for smuggling contraband into India from neighbouring countries. The western border with Pakistan, particularly Punjab and Rajasthan, has seen frequent instances of drones dropping weapons, narcotics, and counterfeit currency.
An ORF study reveals that drone activities in Punjab surged from 48 sightings in 2020 to 267 in 2022, representing 83 per cent of all drone-related incidents along the India-Pakistan border. Similarly, on the eastern front, drones are used to smuggle gold and exotic wildlife from Myanmar and Bangladesh.
ICAO Conference Calls For Action
These challenges were a key focus at the 14th Air Navigation Conference held by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in Montreal. Delegates acknowledged the growing threat posed by Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) interference, which undermines aircraft positioning and navigation accuracy, jeopardising safety.
The conference recommended several measures, including enhanced guidance for pilots, improved information sharing among aviation stakeholders, and the establishment of a global contingency plan to address GNSS outages.
Global Concern
The proliferation of GPS interference and drone activity near borders underscores the urgency for international cooperation to safeguard aviation. While technological advancements are vital for national security, balancing these measures with safety remains a pressing challenge for global aviation authorities.
