Aviation Cybersecurity Incident Response Challenges: A Review

Authors

Faith Nombulelo Lekota, University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Marijke Coetzee, North-West University, South Africa

Published in

IST-Africa 2026 Conference Proceedings

ISSN: 2576-8581

ISBN: 978-1-905824-76-2

DOI: https://doi.org/10.67725/IST-Africa.2026.RKDX8476

Publisher

IST-Africa Institute and IIMC International Information Management Corporation Ltd

Published in Ireland

Abstract

This paper examines the challenges of managing cybersecurity incident response in the aviation sector. It highlights key issues, such as risks posed by complex, interconnected systems and limited international cooperation in threat intelligence sharing. An analysis of Africa's aviation cybersecurity landscape shows that ongoing legislative reforms and varying institutional capacities further complicate the situation. The study also assesses established incident response networks in Europe and the United States, pointing out difficulties in cross-border coordination. A comparison between aviation cybersecurity standards and the NIST Respond category reveals partial alignment and notable gaps. In conclusion, the paper identifies common challenges and emphasises the importance of collaboration, standardisation, and investing in human resources, processes, and technology. It proposes a conceptual framework for incident response to effectively address these issues and strengthen the resilience of cybersecurity teams in aviation. Future research will aim to establish a comprehensive, adaptable framework and practical implementation guidelines.

Keywords

Aviation, challenges, cybersecurity incident response team, frameworks

Cite this paper

F.N. Lekota and M. Coetzee (2026) "Aviation Cybersecurity Incident Response Challenges: A Review", IST-Africa 2026 Conference Proceedings, Miriam Cunningham and Paul Cunningham (Eds), IST-Africa Institute and IIMC, 2026, ISSN: 2576-8581, ISBN: 978-1-905824-76-2, https://doi.org/10.67725/IST-Africa.2026.RKDX8476

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