ICAO Standards for server room and computing server

Here is standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for server rooms and computing servers used in air navigation systems.

It’s important to note that ICAO, as a global organization, tends to focus more on high-level standards and recommended practices rather than specific technical details. These are often implemented and expanded upon by regional and national authorities. However, ICAO does provide guidance that impacts server room and computing server requirements through various documents:

1. Annex 10 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation – Aeronautical Telecommunications:

While primarily focused on communication systems, this annex sets principles that apply to all technical systems in air navigation, including those housed in server rooms:

• Volume I (Radio Navigation Aids) emphasizes: a) Reliability and continuity of service b) Integrity of navigation data c) Resistance to interference
• Volume III (Communication Systems) covers: a) Data integrity in digital communication systems b) Network security considerations

Key points relevant to server rooms and computing servers:

• Systems must have high availability (typically 99.99% or higher)
• Redundancy is required for critical systems
• Data integrity must be maintained throughout processing and transmission

2. Doc 9750 – Global Air Navigation Plan:

This strategic document outlines ICAO’s vision for an integrated, harmonized, and globally interoperable air navigation system. It impacts server room requirements through its emphasis on:

• Interoperability of systems
• Performance-based operations
• Information management and data sharing

Implications for server rooms:

• Need for standardized interfaces and data formats
• Capacity to handle increasing data volumes
• Ability to integrate with global information systems

3. Doc 9854 – Global Air Traffic Management Operational Concept:

This document describes the operational concept for future air traffic management systems. It indirectly affects server room requirements by emphasizing:

• System-wide information management (SWIM)
• Collaborative decision-making
• Automation support

Server room implications:

• Need for high-capacity data processing and storage
• Real-time data sharing capabilities
• Advanced cybersecurity measures

4. Doc 9985 – Air Traffic Management Security Manual (restricted availability):

While not publicly available, this document is known to provide guidance on:

• Cybersecurity for ATM systems
• Physical security for critical infrastructure
• Risk assessment and management

Implications for server rooms:

• Implementation of robust access control systems
• Network segmentation and protection
• Regular security audits and penetration testing

5. ICAO Safety Management Manual (Doc 9859):

This document outlines safety management principles that apply to all aspects of aviation systems, including IT infrastructure:

• Risk-based approach to safety management
• Continuous monitoring and improvement
• Safety performance indicators

Server room applications:

• Implementation of monitoring systems for early fault detection
• Regular risk assessments of server room operations
• Development of safety performance metrics for IT systems

Key ICAO Principles for Server Rooms and Computing Servers:

1. Reliability and Redundancy:
   • Critical systems should have backup components or systems
   • Failover mechanisms should be in place and regularly tested
2. Data Integrity and Security:
   • Measures to ensure the accuracy and completeness of data
   • Protection against unauthorized access or manipulation of data
3. Interoperability:
   • Systems should be able to exchange data with other national and international systems
   • Use of standardized data formats and communication protocols
4. Performance and Capacity:
   • Systems should be designed to handle current and future data processing needs
   • Regular performance assessments and capacity planning
5. Safety and Risk Management:
   • Continuous monitoring of system performance and safety
   • Regular risk assessments and mitigation strategies
6. Cybersecurity:
   • Implementation of robust cybersecurity measures
   • Regular security audits and updates
7. Environmental Controls:
   • Maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels
   • Protection against environmental hazards (e.g., fire, water damage)
8. Physical Security:
   • Controlled access to server rooms and equipment
   • Surveillance and monitoring of critical areas
9. Maintenance and Testing:
   • Regular maintenance schedules for all equipment
   • Periodic testing of systems, including failover and recovery procedures
10. Documentation and Training:
    • Comprehensive documentation of all systems and procedures
    • Regular training for staff on operations and emergency procedures

While ICAO sets these high-level standards and principles, the specific implementation details are often left to regional or national authorities. These authorities typically develop more detailed regulations and guidelines that align with ICAO’s overarching standards while addressing local needs and conditions.

References

• Doc 9859 AN/474 ICAO Safety Management Manual (SMM) https://www.icao.int/SAM/Documents/2017-SSP-GUY/Doc%209859%20SMM%20Third%20edition%20en.pdf