Computer security and air traffic automation

Abstract

Summary form only given. The author addresses the problem of whether it is possible to have an advanced automated air traffic system and still meet the safety concerns of both the controllers and system engineers as well as the computer security demands of the new Public Law 100-235, the Computer Security Act of 1987. Security has been an integral part of the planning for the advanced automation system, the air traffic control system. Yet, when the system design was still very young, automated security found itself neglected due to a fear that inclusion of a security package might deny access to a controller or system engineer in a time of urgent need. The solution was to develop a security package that would not cause such a denial of service. The author emphasizes the need for computer security education.<>