Cyber Security Data Science

Establishing cyber analytical capabilities that are common between various elements of the aviation ecosystem (especially the NAS, AOCs and airports) is an essential capability that needs to be developed and matured to allow efficient and synchronized use of common data sets, analytical tools and communication backbones across the entire aviation ecosystem. To address these needs, the FAA NextGen Organization (ANG) has established the Cybersecurity Data Science (CSDS) research program with emphasis on discovery, assessment, adaptation, demonstration and transfer of cyber technology - to enhance information cybersecurity for elements of the aviation ecosystem. The research is focused on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) techniques to address these aviation ecosystem cybersecurity needs using customizable algorithms and tools that have applicability to the NAS, AOCs and airports. 

In early FY22, ERAU conducted the first phase of CSDS research with the FAA. This research focused upon two primary objectives: formalization of an Aviation Architectural Framework (AAF) based upon the initial framework and application of the AAF to a single use case for an abbreviated analytical study. 

In FY23, Task Order 14 activities added to the research products completed in Phase 1, making use of the formal AAF to conduct an additional use case study in more detail, while collaborating with FAA research partners and industry stakeholders. The effort was executed in close coordination among ERAU, the FAA Cyber R&D Team and the research partner MIT Lincoln Laboratory to align overall program research and concepts.

Please take a look at the link for more information and the initial publications.