Cyber Attack Disrupts European Airports, Causes Flight Delays and Cancellations

Strategic Insights -

Air passengers experienced significant disruption at several European airports, including London Heathrow, after an alleged cyber attack targeted a service provider for check-in and boarding systems. The technical issue, which affected Collins Aerospace, caused delays and cancellations on Saturday, with flights cancelled or delayed as the impacted airlines had to carry out check-in and boarding operations manually. Passengers faced queues, delays, and confusion at Terminal 4, with some flights cancelled or delayed.

Key Takeaways:

  • The cyber attack affected Collins Aerospace, a service provider for check-in and boarding systems at several European airports.
  • The disruption caused significant delays and cancellations, with flights cancelled or delayed as airlines had to carry out manual check-in and boarding operations.
  • Passengers faced queues, delays, and confusion at Terminal 4, with some flights cancelled or delayed.
  • British Airways at Terminal 5 remained unaffected and operated as normal.
  • Brussels Airport experienced heavy disruption to check-in operations due to the cyber attack.
  • The European Commission monitored the situation but reported no signs of a widespread or severe attack.
  • Collins Aerospace actively worked to resolve the issue and restore full functionality to its customers as quickly as possible.
  • The transportation and customer support teams of airlines were actively engaged in addressing the concerns of the passengers.

Statistics:

  • 7 departing flights were cancelled on Sunday afternoon due to the technical issue.
  • 18 flights were delayed on Sunday afternoon, although it is unclear which of these were caused by the technical issue.
  • Collins Aerospace is a global leader in producing technology for the aerospace and defense industry.
  • The Muse (multi-user system environment) software is used by Collins Aerospace for electronic customer check-in and baggage drop.
  • The European Commission closely monitors the aviation sector to ensure aviation safety and air traffic control remain unaffected.

Sources:

  • Heathrow airport statement expressing apology for the disruption
  • Collins Aerospace statement working to resolve the technical issue
  • Brussels Airport statement on the cyber attack affecting check-in operations
  • European Commission statement monitoring the situation and ensuring aviation safety and air traffic control remain unaffected
  • Spokesperson for Collins Aerospace
  • ENISA, EUROCONTROL, and aircraft manufacturer