FAA Addresses Aviation Cybersecurity Threats
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking public input on new regulations aimed at protecting future airplanes and critical aviation equipment in response to growing cybersecurity threats. With flight systems becoming increasingly connected to internal and external networks, the need for reliable cybersecurity measures has never been more critical.
The proposed regulations would require design applicants to conduct thorough security risk analyses, identifying vulnerabilities in their systems, architecture, and interfaces. These rules aim to standardize criteria for addressing cybersecurity threats, streamline certification processes — and maintain current safety levels.
While the FAA currently uses “special conditions” to protect against unauthorized access, the new rules intend to formalize these standards across the industry. Joe Saunders, CEO of RunSafe Security, lauds the update as a positive yet overdue measure, though he emphasizes the need for multi-layer defenses to cover all potential threats.
The FAA is working closely with federal intelligence and security experts to ensure comprehensive safeguards against potential risks. And we couldn’t agree more — the only turbulence we should be worried about is the kind that rattles the plane, not cybersecurity.
Texas Takes Aim at Drunk Driving
As Labor Day weekend approaches, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is ramping up its “Drive Sober. No Regrets.” campaign. Last year, the holiday period saw 334 DUI-related crashes, resulting in 14 fatalities and 35 serious injuries. This alarming trend has prompted TxDOT to collaborate with law enforcement to remind drivers of the life-saving choice of arranging a sober ride.
This campaign is part of the broader #EndTheStreakTX movement, which aims to end the tragic streak of daily roadway deaths in Texas that has persisted since November 7, 2000.
From August 16 through September 2, law enforcement will intensify efforts to identify and arrest intoxicated drivers. This initiative aligns with the national enforcement period sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
By partnering with law enforcement and leveraging public outreach, TxDOT hopes to make a significant impact this holiday weekend. The goal is to save lives and ensure that no family has to endure the pain of losing a loved one.
Source Cambridge Mobile Telematics | The Reach Home Safely app
Georgia Fights Distracted Driving with New App
The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has launched the “Reach Home Safely” app to combat the growing menace of distracted driving.
Developed in collaboration with Cambridge Mobile Telematics (CMT), this app is a crucial part of the Safest Driver program, which has already shown significant success in reducing risky driving behaviors.
Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA reveal the urgency of this initiative, as distracted driving claimed 12,405 lives in 2021 alone. In Georgia, drivers spend almost two minutes on their phones while driving, placing the state 43rd in the nation for distracted driving.
The app supports Georgia’s Hands-Free Law, enacted in 2018 to limit electronic device usage while driving. To further engage its communities, GDOT has partnered with the Atlanta Braves, offering incentives and contests to promote safe driving practices.