Radio frequency interference, its mitigation and its implications for the civil aviation industry

Radio Frequency Interference has emerged as a growing challenge for aviation safety and system integrity due to the increasing spectral overlap between communication technologies and aviation systems. This paper investigates the sources, types, and consequences of RFI in Global Navigation Satellite Systems, Instrument Landing Systems, and altimeters used in civil aviation. A detailed examination of both intentional and unintentional interference is presented, highlighting real-world incidents and simulated impact models. The study analyzes technical mechanisms such as receiver desensitization, intermodulation, and cross-modulation, and further explores UAV-based interference detection frameworks. Mitigation strategies are reviewed, including regulatory practices, spectrum filters, shielding architectures, and dynamic UAV sensing systems. Comparative insights into simulation results, shielding techniques, and regulatory gaps are discussed. The paper concludes with recommendations for enhancing current aviation standards and suggests a hybrid validation model combining in-flight measurements with simulation-based assessments. This research contributes to the understanding of electromagnetic vulnerabilities in aviation and provides a basis for future mitigation protocols.