Indian Ministry Confirms Widespread GPS Spoofing at Delhi & Major Airports

The Indian Civil Aviation Ministry has officially confirmed numerous instances of GPS spoofing and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference affecting operations at Delhi Airport and several other major aviation hubs across the country. These confirmed incidents have led to various flight disruptions and necessitated the implementation of heightened security measures to mitigate risks to air traffic safety and operational integrity. The ministry's acknowledgment underscores a growing concern within the nation's aviation sector regarding the vulnerability of navigation systems.

In a written response to the Rajya Sabha, India's upper house of Parliament, the Minister of Civil Aviation detailed the proactive steps taken by regulatory bodies. It was revealed that the Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a mandatory directive in November 2023, requiring all airports nationwide to promptly report any cases of GPS jamming or spoofing. Since the implementation of this mandate, major airports have consistently submitted reports detailing such occurrences, compelling the DGCA to initiate further regulatory actions and intensify monitoring efforts to safeguard air navigation. This ongoing situation highlights the critical need for robust defense mechanisms against sophisticated electronic interference in modern aviation.