The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is exploring the application of blockchain technology to significantly improve air travel safety and security measures.
NASA, an independent agency of the U.S. federal government, is responsible for the nation's civil space program and conducts research in aeronautics and space exploration.
In a recent drone flight test conducted at the Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley, NASA researchers evaluated a blockchain-based system designed to protect flight data. This initiative was detailed by NASA on January 16.
Understanding Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology is characterized as a decentralized digital database or ledger. It securely stores records across a network of computers, ensuring transparency, immutability, and resistance to tampering.
The fundamental structure of a blockchain involves data being stored in blocks, which are then linked together sequentially, forming a chain. This interconnected structure gives rise to the term "blockchain."
NASA Explores Blockchain to Combat Cyberthreats
NASA is investigating the use of blockchain systems to prevent the interception or manipulation of air traffic data transmitted between aircraft and ground stations.
The agency identified the increasing prevalence of cyberthreats as a driving factor behind the exploration of blockchain technology.
This particular research by NASA focused on how blockchain technology can secure digital transactions among a multitude of systems and operators.
The research team implemented an open-source blockchain framework. This framework permits trusted users to share and store critical data, such as aircraft operator registration details, flight plans, and telemetry, in real time. Crucially, the framework also restricts data access exclusively to authorized and trusted users, according to NASA.
The resilience of the system against cyber threats was demonstrated through a test flight at Ames in August 2025, utilizing an Alta-X drone equipped with custom-built software and hardware.
The test simulated real-world operational conditions, including a drone flying under actual environmental circumstances, complete with a separate ground control station and the necessary security infrastructure.
The blockchain framework utilized in this test has the potential to be extended to support high-altitude operations, including those above 60,000 feet, and urban air mobility operations, NASA reported.
By using drones, the NASA research team was able to show that blockchain technology could offer advantages across several key areas of aviation development. These areas include autonomous air traffic management, urban air mobility, and the operation of high-altitude aircraft, the agency stated.
This project is part of NASA’s Airspace Operations and Safety Program, which falls under the agency’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate. This directorate is dedicated to enabling safe and efficient aviation transportation operations.
The conducted tests are expected to provide valuable insights for U.S. aviation stakeholders seeking new methods to enhance operations. NASA indicated that the researchers will incorporate their findings into future work.