GPS Spoofing of Flights Reported at Major Airports Including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai: Centre Tells RS

Introduction

The central government has informed the Rajya Sabha that several flights operating at major airports across the country reported incidents of GPS spoofing in recent weeks. Airports in Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai were among those where interference was detected, raising concerns about the safety of aircraft navigation systems.

What Is GPS Spoofing?

GPS spoofing is a type of electronic interference where fake satellite signals are transmitted to mislead aircraft navigation systems. This can cause incorrect positioning and force pilots to switch to backup procedures. While pilots are trained for such situations, repeated incidents increase operational risk and workload.

Where the Incidents Happened

According to the civil aviation ministry’s statement in the Rajya Sabha, reports came from:

• Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
• Chennai International Airport
• A few other operational sectors used for domestic routes

The ministry assured that no flight was in danger and that standard safety protocols were followed immediately.

What the Government Said

The Centre told the House that all incidents were handled safely by the pilots and ATC teams. After receiving the alerts, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) enhanced surveillance to identify the source of interference.

The ministry also said that GPS spoofing is not always targeted but can result from unregulated electronic devices or cross-border signal disruptions.

Airlines and ATCs Given Fresh Guidelines

Following these reports, airlines have been instructed to:

• Update pilots on the affected regions
• Strengthen alternative navigation procedures
• Report any suspicious signal disruption immediately

Air Traffic Control units have also been advised to maintain closer monitoring of incoming aircraft and assist with alternate navigation support whenever required.

No Compromise on Passenger Safety, Says Centre

The Centre reassured Parliament that India’s aviation safety systems are designed with multiple layers of protection. Even if GPS fails, pilots can rely on radio navigation, ground-based equipment, and ATC guidance.

Officials said there has been no compromise on passenger safety, and all incidents were handled professionally.

Investigation Underway

A technical team is working to trace the source of the spoofed signals. Authorities are also coordinating with cybersecurity experts and international aviation bodies to understand if similar patterns are being noticed globally.

The government added that more advanced anti-spoofing technology will be deployed to strengthen Indian airports against such threats.

A Matter of Growing Global Concern

GPS spoofing has been reported in several regions worldwide, especially in conflict zones or near contested airspace. India’s latest incidents reflect a global rise in electronic interference affecting navigation systems.

What Happens Next

More updates are expected after the investigation progresses. The government has emphasised that protecting aircraft navigation systems is a national priority and that both technical upgrades and policy measures are being accelerated.