EASA Part-IS marks a significant step forward in aviation cybersecurity, introducing mandatory requirements for managing information security risks across the sector.
As digital systems become increasingly embedded in aviation operations, compliance with Part-IS is not just a regulatory box-tick – it’s a strategic imperative. This blog provides practical, accessible guidance to help aviation professionals understand and act on EASA Part-IS.
What is EASA Part-IS?
EASA Part-IS (Information Security) is a new regulatory framework designed to strengthen cybersecurity across the European aviation sector. It comes into force in two phases:
- From 16 October 2025: Applies to airport operators, apron control services, and aircraft manufacturing and development organisations.
- From 22 February 2026: Extends to air carriers, maintenance organisations, CAMOs, approved training organisations, aeromedical centres, flight simulation training device operators, air traffic controller training organisations, air navigation service providers, U-space service providers, and aviation authorities including EASA itself.
This regulation requires affected organisations to implement a structured Information Security Management System (ISMS) to identify, manage, and mitigate risks that could impact aviation safety.
To support the aviation community on its journey to Part-IS compliance, here are five practical tips to help your organisation navigate Part-IS compliance with confidence:
1. Understand the Scope and Intent of Part-IS
Part-IS applies to a wide range of aviation stakeholders, including air operators, maintenance organisations, training organisations or aero-medical centres . It’s designed to protect critical information systems that, if compromised, could impact aviation safety by establishing requirements for both organisations and authorities. Whether you are an authority or an aviation organisation, start by reviewing the regulation and identifying relevant requirements. Don’t treat Part-IS an an IT-only issue – it’s about safeguarding, operational integrity, passenger safety, and business continuity.
2. Conduct a Thorough Gap Analysis
Before implementing new controls, assess your current information security posture. A structured gap analysis will help you identify areas of non-compliance, prioritise risks, and allocate resources effectively. Use a recognised framework like ISO/IEC 27001 as a benchmark. Many of its controls align with Part-IS requirements but introduce provisions specific to the context of aviation safety.
3. Build a Cross-Functional Security Culture
Effective information security requires collaboration across departments. Engage teams from IT, operations, HR, legal, and training to ensure that security is embedded throughout your organisation. Consider running awareness sessions tailored to different roles. A technician’s exposure to risk differs from that of a flight operations manager.
4. Leverage Existing Standards and Tools
If your organisation already complies with other cybersecurity regulations (e.g., NIS2, ISO standards), you may be able to map existing controls to Part-IS. This can reduce duplication and accelerate implementation. Document how your current practices meet Part-IS requirements. This will be invaluable during audits or oversight reviews. Document how your current practices meet Part-IS requirements, this will be invaluable during audits or oversight reviews.
5. Prepare for Oversight and Continuous Improvement
National aviation authorities will expect clear evidence of compliance. Maintain up-to-date documentation, conduct internal audits, and establish a process for continuous improvement. Don’t wait for an external audit to test your readiness – simulate oversight scenarios internally to build confidence and resilience. Don’t wait for an external audit to test your readiness. Simulate oversight scenarios internally to build confidence and resilience.
Don’t treat Part-IS as an IT-only issue.
It’s about safeguarding, passenger safety, and business continuity.
Use a framework like ISO/IEC 27001 as a benchmark.
Many of its controls align with Part-IS requirements.
Consider running awareness sessions.
Tailored to different roles.
Document how your current practices meet Part-IS requirements.
This will help during audits or oversight reviews.
Don’t wait for an external audit to test your readiness.
Simulate oversight scenarios internally to build resilience.
Final Thought
EASA Part-IS is more than a compliance exercise – it’s an opportunity to strengthen your organisation’s cybersecurity posture. By taking a proactive, strategic approach, you’ll be better positioned to protect your operations and passengers in an increasingly digital world.
Ready to take the next step?
Explore our Part-IS training courses designed to help aviation professionals understand the regulation, implement effective ISMS frameworks, and prepare for compliance. Available online and in-company. Enquire today to secure your place.
