A Pilot, a Robot, and a Hacker finally sit down at the bar…

In a recent post, I wrote about what would happen if a Pilot, a Robot and a Hacker walked into a bar. The article was meant to discuss the intersection of these seemingly disparate fields. Now that we know how entwined they really are, let’s imagine listening in on our friends.

This is meant to be a tongue-in-cheek exploration of the topic. No aviators were harmed in the making of this scene.

Hacker: “So, why are we here?”

Pilot: “Haven’t you heard? It appears genetic testing has proven we’re not strangers — we’re actually related!”

Robot: “I must point out that while both of you are carbon-based, I am not.”

Pilot: “Details. We like you anyway, Chat. By the way, have you heard about the latest advancements in Mobility Tech? It’s supposed to be faster, safer, and more convenient, but apparently it comes with some serious cyber threats. Last thing I need is to get hacked while flying.”

Robot: “Of course, Chuck. As an AI, I’m always up to date on the latest technological trends. Advancements in mobility are most welcome. However, the more we connect our transportation systems, the more vulnerable they become.”

Hacker: “Speaking of vulnerabilities, did you know that most of the tools used by criminals to hack these systems are free or low cost? They’re just itching to cause chaos for money, fame, or resources. Mostly fame.”

Pilot: “Well, we can’t just sit around and wait for the bad guys to strike. Waiting until an airliner or commuter train crashes is unacceptable. Isn’t there a plan to ensure the safe expansion of mobility tech?”

Robot: “Well, Chuck, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning can enhance cybersecurity in aviation and mobility tech. We can use private initiatives and government funding to revitalize our existing infrastructure, while keeping it safe.”

Hacker: “Right on, Chat. Two easy areas where we can make a quick impact are Anomaly Detection and Predictive Analysis.”

Pilot: “Anomaly Detection? Too many syllables. What’s that?”

Robot: “It’s when an AI trains algorithms on historical data to create a baseline understanding of normal system behavior. Then it monitors for any unusual patterns or activities that deviate from the norm, flagging them as potential cyber threats.”

Hacker: “You can pull ten g’s and you didn’t know that?”

Pilot: “My IQ is directly proportional to my groundspeed.”

Hacker: “Hmph. Figures. Guess you don’t know anything about Predictive Analysis, huh?”

Pilot: “Sounds like something our intel brief would cover.”

Hacker: “They probably use it already. Predictive Analysis is when an AI analyzes historical data to find trends. You can use those to predict and identify potential vulnerabilities in OT systems.”

Pilot: “Well, that’s cool. You’re saying we can use that information to address security weaknesses before they become exploitable?”

Robot: “Precisely. With the proper application of AI tools, we can secure these complex systems and mitigate cyber threats against them. Whenever public funds are used to improve mobility infrastructure, policy makers should insist on investing in cutting-edge tools to preemptively identify and mitigate cyber threats.”

Pilot: “That sounds like a lot of money.”

Hacker: “Not necessarily. But imagine not doing anything. My homies on the other side of the fence would have a field day with your OT.”

Pilot: “OT? Like in Overtime?”

Hacker: “Like in Operational Technology. The hardware and software that control and monitor all the physical stuff in industrial environments. In flying and mobility tech, they’re the systems that ensure safety and reliability. In your case, we’re talking air traffic control, navigation, communication, and vehicle systems management. The IT stuff that’s not email, you know?”

PIlot: “So, like the pointy end of computers?”

Hacker: “That’s one way to look at it. The computers that run the physical stuff. They’re pretty old, and most places ignore them. They are easy targets, especially in things like utilities and power.”

Pilot: “How often do those get hacked?

Hacker: “All. The. Time. Most hackers think OT is actually the weakest link in most systems.”

Robot: “Allow me to provide some numbers. The probability that a transportation system will suffer a cyber attack in the coming decade is ONE, which meants it is a certainty. The only question is how severe the consequence might be. Do policy makers have a reasonable choice to NOT invest in cyber defense of operational technology? Especially now that AI and ML can make such cyber-defense so cost-effective?”

Pilot: “Chat, you had me at ‘prompt.’ Good point.”

Hacker: “Well, it looks like we’ve got our work cut out for us. The tech part is the easiest!”

Pilot: “I agree. Getting the policy to follow will be the challenge. But first, a toast.”

Robot: “I have no mouth.”

Hacker: “I only consume energy drinks and guacamole.”

Pilot: “Are you serious? And why don’t you have a name?”

Hacker: “I’m not serious. I’m Anonymous.”

Pilot: “Check, please!”

Noel Zamot is the founder of Atabey Group, and advisory firm focused on aviation cybersecurity, national security, and energy transition. He is the former Commander of the USAF’s elite Test Pilot School, an award-winning author, and former economic development executive. Six years ago he launched a firm to analyze aviation systems for cybersecurity risk. All of his dire “I told you so” warnings are now coming home to roost. Agree? Disagree? Drop him a line at noel@noelzamot.com