The unmitigated insider threat to aviation (Part 1): a qualitative analysis of risks

Abstract

Traditional aviation security methods place strong emphasis on managing the risks of aviation passengers and customers. Little emphasis is placed on monitoring and mitigating the security risks presented by industry employees. Once vetted, aviation employees are often granted a “trusted” status that affords them nearly unfettered access to critical aviation infrastructure, aircraft, and equipment. News articles are rife with anecdotes of airport, TSA, and airline employees using their access and knowledge of aviation security procedures to commit crimes of theft and violence. This study sought to understand the perceptions of aviation managers about the unique security risks presented by employees--the insider risk. Interviews were conducted with six senior aviation managers from academia, airline companies, airports, trade organizations, and government agencies to ascertain each executive’s impressions about the risks presented from insider threats. Interviews were analyzed using qualitative research methodology for emerging themes and sub-themes. This study is part one of a two-part study to ascertain the key risks presented by insider threats and establishing aviation security countermeasures.