FAA Demands Cyber Shields for Planes Hooked Up to the Internet Wildly
Published Date: 3/20/2025
Rule
Summary
Canard Aerospace is upgrading the DeHavilland DHC-8-400 airplane with a new digital system that connects the plane’s electronics to outside networks like the internet and wireless devices. Because this is a fresh and tricky tech move, special safety rules are needed to keep everything secure from hackers and unauthorized access. These rules kick in as part of the approval process, making sure the plane stays safe without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
New Cybersecurity Safety Rules
The FAA requires additional safety standards for the DeHavilland Model DHC-8-400 when Canard Aerospace installs a digital systems architecture that connects the airplane to external networks (for example: operator networks, wireless devices, internet connectivity, satellite communications, and electronic flight bags). These special conditions are meant to protect the airplane's previously isolated electronic systems and databases from unauthorized external access.
Requirements Apply During STC Approval
These special conditions apply as part of the supplemental type certificate (STC) approval for Canard Aerospace's modification to the DHC-8-400. The rule states the added safety standards are intended to establish a level of safety equivalent to existing airworthiness standards and are applied without adding extra costs or delays to the approval process.
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