Electronic Warfare, Crashes Heighten Aviation Safety Risks

Aviation safety faces heightened risks amid a surge in fatal airline accidents and escalating electronic warfare, including GPS jamming, in global conflict zones, especially the Middle East. Recent deadly crashes, such as those involving Air India flight AI171 and Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243, have been linked to navigation failures caused by missile fragments and jamming. Intensified military actions by Iran, Israel, and the US have triggered widespread airspace closures and over 160 flight diversions in a single day, severely impacting major carriers and global logistics. Experts warn that jamming and spoofing not only disrupt flight navigation but also increase the risk of in-air collisions and accidental shoot-downs. The aviation industry is additionally strained by staffing shortages, technical limitations, and militarized airspace despite record passenger numbers. These developments underscore the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols and greater international coordination.