In response to a series of concerning incidents, the Indian government has announced the implementation of new protective measures to counter the threat of GPS spoofing affecting the country's aviation sector. The move comes after multiple flights reported interference with their navigation systems near major airports.
Incidents Prompt Immediate Action
Union Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu informed Parliament on Monday about the recent events. He revealed that several flights had experienced GPS spoofing while approaching runway 10 at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. These aircraft were using satellite-based landing procedures at the time, forcing pilots to activate pre-defined contingency plans to ensure a safe landing.
The minister's statement highlights a growing technological challenge for modern aviation, where reliance on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) can be exploited by malicious actors. The spoofing incidents, which involve broadcasting false GPS signals to mislead receivers, pose a significant risk to flight safety.
Strengthened Protocols and Real-Time Reporting
India's aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), is not starting from scratch. It had already issued an advisory circular in November 2023 to address potential GNSS interference in national airspace. However, the specific spoofing events near IGI Airport necessitated further action.
As a result, on November 10, the DGCA tightened existing safety protocols and issued a set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). A key component of these new SOPs is the mandate for real-time reporting of any such spoofing or interference events. This allows for quicker coordination and response from air traffic control and security agencies.
Tracking the Source of the Threat
Beyond procedural changes, authorities are actively working to identify the origin of these disruptive signals. Minister Naidu stated that the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has engaged the Wireless Monitoring Organisation (WMO). The WMO's task is to track and locate the source of the GPS interference and spoofing, which is a critical step in preventing future attacks.
The government's multi-pronged approach—combining updated pilot procedures, enhanced real-time reporting, and technical investigation—aims to safeguard India's busy air corridors. As air travel continues to grow, protecting navigation systems from digital threats remains a top priority for aviation security.
