Airport Cybersecurity: The Top OT & IoT Risks in 2025

Airports depend on many connected systems, such as baggage handling, airfield controls, kiosks, sensors, and security tools. However, as these systems grow more digital, cyber risks increase.

Airports Are Becoming Prime Cyber Targets

To begin with, airports use a mix of IT, OT, and IoT systems that must work together all day, every day. These systems support flights, passengers, and ground operations.

However, many airport systems still run on older platforms or were not designed with cybersecurity in mind. As a result, attackers look for weak points that are easy to reach.

In addition, one vulnerable device can open a path into larger and more critical networks. Therefore, even small weaknesses can have big consequences.

Common reasons why attackers target airports include:

• For example, airports offer high-impact disruption when systems go down.
• Additionally, many OT and IoT devices have weak security by default.
• Furthermore, vendor access is often broad and hard to track.
• Moreover, visibility into all connected devices is limited.
• Finally, flight delays and safety concerns create strong pressure to respond quickly.

Threat #1: Baggage Handling and Conveyor Systems

First, modern baggage systems rely on conveyors, scanners, sensors, and PLCs. These systems move thousands of bags every day and must stay online.

However, many baggage components still use outdated software or lack secure update processes. Additionally, network segmentation between baggage systems and the rest of the airport may be weak.

Key risks include:

• Attackers changing commands in baggage control systems.
• Malware delaying, misrouting, or losing luggage.
• PLC vulnerabilities that cause shutdowns or errors.
• Unclear separation between baggage networks and corporate IT.

As a result, a single cyber incident in baggage handling can affect airlines, ground crews, and passengers very quickly.

Threat #2: Airfield Systems and Gate Controls

Secondly, airfield lighting, runway systems, jet bridges, and gate controls all depend on digital networks. These systems support safe aircraft movement on the ground.

Unfortunately, many of these OT systems were designed long before modern cyber threats. In addition, some devices use insecure remote access or outdated protocols.

Risks include:

• Unsecured remote access into airfield control equipment.
• Outdated firmware and control software that are rarely patched.
• Insecure or unencrypted communication between devices.
• Unauthorized changes to lighting, signage, or gate operations.

Therefore, even small disruptions in these systems can delay flights and raise safety concerns across the airport.

Threat #3: Passenger-Facing Systems

Thirdly, airports use self-service kiosks, digital displays, mobile apps, and Wi-Fi networks to support travelers. These tools are designed for convenience and speed.

However, attackers often see these systems as easy entry points. For example, kiosks may run outdated operating systems, and public Wi-Fi can expose users to phishing or man-in-the-middle attacks.

Key risks include:

• Compromised check-in or ticketing kiosks.
• Hacked digital signage showing false or misleading information.
• Malware on shared terminals and devices.
• Passengers connecting to rogue Wi-Fi networks that look official.

Consequently, attackers can gain an initial foothold and then try to move into more sensitive airport systems.

Threat #4: IoT Devices Across the Airport

Fourthly, airports rely on thousands of IoT devices spread across terminals and airfields. These include cameras, badge readers, sensors, HVAC controls, and access systems.

In many cases, these devices are installed once and then rarely updated. Additionally, some ship with default passwords or minimal security features.

Typical weaknesses include:

• Default or weak passwords that are never changed.
• No encryption for data moving across the network.
• Insecure wireless configurations.
• Unpatched vulnerabilities that remain open for years.

As a result, a single vulnerable IoT device can become an easy entry point for attackers or a tool for spying on sensitive areas.

Threat #5: Vendor and Contractor Access

Fifthly, airports depend on many vendors, contractors, and service providers. These partners help maintain systems, networks, and physical equipment.

However, vendors often require deep remote access into airport environments. In addition, some accounts are shared, reused, or left active after work is complete.

Risks include:

• Shared vendor logins with no clear owner.
• Weak or missing multi-factor authentication.
• VPN access that reaches multiple critical systems.
• No complete logs of vendor actions while connected.

Therefore, vendor access has become one of the most common pathways for serious cyber incidents.

On the other hand, airports that strictly control and monitor vendor access can greatly reduce this risk.

How IoT365 Helps Protect Airport OT & IoT Systems

In response to these risks, IoT365 helps airports secure their OT and IoT environments. The platform provides visibility, control, and continuous monitoring.

IoT365 offers:

• Real-time asset discovery for all OT and IoT devices.
• Zero Trust segmentation to limit lateral movement.
• Anomaly detection for unusual commands and behavior.
• Secure vendor access with identity-based controls.
• IoT vulnerability monitoring for weak passwords and old firmware.
• Continuous OT visibility without disrupting operations.

Learn More from Trusted Aviation Security Sources

Additionally, you can review these official resources to learn more about airport cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection:

• FAA Aviation Cybersecurity: https://www.faa.gov/airports/airport_safety/cyber
• DHS Transportation Systems Security: https://www.dhs.gov/critical-infrastructure-sectors/transportation-systems
• CISA Airport Infrastructure Security: https://www.cisa.gov/airport-infrastructure
• NIST Cybersecurity Framework: https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework
• ICAO Aviation Cybersecurity: https://www.icao.int/cybersecurity/Pages/default.aspx

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, airports must secure both OT and IoT systems to stay safe and reliable. However, many environments still rely on outdated technology and weak controls.

Ultimately, airports that invest in strong cybersecurity will reduce risk, improve safety, and provide smoother travel for everyone.