London, UK – A cyber attack targeting a key software provider has caused significant disruption and widespread delays at several major European airports, including London Heathrow, Brussels, and Berlin. The attack, which hit Collins Aerospace, a company that supplies check-in and boarding systems for multiple airlines globally, rendered automated systems inoperable and forced airports to revert to manual check-in and boarding procedures.
The incident, which reportedly began on Friday night, has led to a cascade of flight delays and cancellations. While the airports and airlines affected are working to manage the situation, passengers are experiencing long queues and increased wait times.
Key Updates:
- Heathrow Airport, Europe’s busiest, confirmed a “technical issue” with its provider, advising passengers to check their flight status with their airline before traveling. They have deployed extra staff to assist with the manual check-in process.
- Brussels Airport openly stated that a cyber attack was the cause of the disruption, and that it has had a “large impact on the flight schedule,” resulting in numerous delays and cancellations. The airport is actively working with the service provider to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
- Berlin Airport also reported longer waiting times at check-in due to a “technical issue at a system provider operating across Europe” and is working on a solution.
- Collins Aerospace’s parent company, RTX, has acknowledged a “cyber-related disruption” to its software at selected airports. It specified that the impact is limited to electronic check-in and baggage drop and can be managed through manual operations.
- Not All Airports Affected: Airports in Frankfurt and Zurich have confirmed they have not been impacted by the cyber attack, and major airlines like EasyJet have stated that their operations are currently normal.
The full extent of the attack and the identity of the perpetrators are still unknown. The incident highlights the vulnerability of interconnected aviation infrastructure to such cyber threats. Travelers are strongly advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates on their flight status before heading to the airport.
