Desert Falcon's Archives
If Boeing is going to keep on producing jumbo jets with state-of-the-art networking technology, it may have to get used to dealing with government demands that it ensure the planes are not hackable.
Earlier this month, as reported by AVWeb, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration issued "special conditions" regarding Boeing's forthcoming 747-8--the next-generation of its iconic 747 line of planes--aimed at making sure that the new plane's high-tech networking systems are hack-proof.
The 747-8, which should have its first flight any day now, is intended to be a much more efficient and powerful version of the 747 than even its most recent models. According to the FAA, it "will have novel or unusual design features associated with the architecture and connectivity capabilities of the airplane's computer systems and networks, which may allow access to external computer systems and networks."
The agency wrote that the airplane's digital systems architecture comprises several connected networks and may interface with "flight-safety related control, communication, and navigation systems;" "Airline business and administrative support;" "Passenger information and entertainment systems;" and "The capability to allow access to or by external network sources."
Essentially, the FAA seemed worried that the 747-8 will be vulnerable to outside access and that the "applicable airworthiness regulations do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for these design features," mandating the issuing of the special conditions.
