Vulnerabilities

Lack of authentication for Very High Frequency Data Link messages allows rogue ground stations to inject CPDLC messages leading to unexpected or misleading clearances and potential pilot confusion.

Unnumbered Disconnect (U DISC) and malformed Aviation Very High Frequency Link Control frames can terminate sessions and lead to a loss of CPDLC functions requiring a reversion to voice communication and increased contro…

Broadcast control frames can disconnect multiple aircraft simultaneously leading to delayed clearances and air traffic controller overload.

Injection of false emergency or status messages over CPDLC may lead to misallocation of resources, operational confusion, and improper response actions by flight crews, traffic controllers, and ground operations.

Malformed or out-of-sequence frames at the Aviation Very High Frequency Link Control X.25 layers cause repeated resets which may result in increased workload and reduced situational awareness.