Hackers can access a plane’s controls remotely using a flaw in an in-flight entertainment system used by 13 major airlines, according to cyber researchers.

 

A flaw in an in-flight entertainment system used by Emirates, Virgin and Qatar airlines could let hackers remotely access the plane, according to cyber security researchers at IOActive.

 

The security hole in the Panasonic Avionics in-flight system is used in planes run by 13 major airlines and could put passengers’ information and safety at risk, the cyber-sleuths told ZDnet.

 

They claim they were able to hijack in-flight displays to change information like altitude, location and alter the announcements.

 

Principal security consultant Ruben Santamarta said: “Chained together this could be an unsettling experience for passengers.”

 

He was able to access credit card details of frequent fliers stored in the automatic payment system.

 

Santamarta warned that it was “totally feasible” to access the aircraft’s controls too.

 

Panasonic denied this was possible.