US, April 21 -- As commercial aircraft become increasingly defined by software rather than steel, the aviation industry is confronting a new and largely invisible threat: cyberattacks that could disrupt, exploit or even endanger modern flight systems.

In response, European aerospace giant Airbus is moving to strengthen its defenses, announcing an agreement to acquire the French cybersecurity firm Quarkslab. The deal, expected to close in 2026 pending regulatory approvals, reflects a broader shift in how aircraft manufacturers are preparing for a future where digital resilience is as critical as aerodynamics.

The move comes at a time when aviation systems - from cockpit avionics to passenger connectivity networks - are more interconnect...