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Airports

Cyber Attack Disrupts European Airports, Hundreds of Flights Delayed

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A cyber attack on a check-in and boarding systems provider, Collins Aerospace, caused significant disruptions at European airports yesterday, affecting Brussels and Berlin's airport operations. The technical issue, described as a "cyber-related disruption" to the MUSE software, led to long queues and delayed flights, with over 200 planes delayed out of Heathrow, one of Europe's busiest airports. The UK Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, acknowledged the problem and urged passengers to check with their airlines for updates.

Key Takeaways:

  • A cyber attack on Collins Aerospace's MUSE software caused disruptions at European airports, including Brussels and Berlin.
  • Over 200 planes were delayed out of Heathrow, with unclear information on how many were directly related to the cyber attack.
  • Scotland's airports were not directly affected by the issue.
  • Passengers experienced long queues and delays, with some resorting to manual baggage check-in and handwritten tags.
  • The UK Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, acknowledged the problem and urged passengers to check with their airlines.
  • Collins Aerospace's passenger systems help passengers check in, print boarding passes and tags, and dispatch luggage from a kiosk.
  • The National Cyber Security Centre is working with Collins Aerospace, affected UK airports, and law enforcement colleagues to address the issue.
  • Heathrow Airport cited a "technical issue" with Collins Aerospace as the cause of delays.
  • Brussels Airport confirmed that the cyber attack occurred on Friday night.

Statistics:

  • Over 200 planes were delayed out of Heathrow (FlightAware).
  • Hundreds of passengers experienced long queues and delays at Heathrow Terminal 4.
  • Brussels Airport was affected by the cyber attack, which occurred on Friday night.
  • Collins Aerospace's MUSE software was the target of the cyber attack.
  • The UK Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, acknowledged the problem.

Sources:

  • Alzheimer's Society. (Source not found in the article, this was presumed incorrect and ignored)
  • Reuters. (No source)
  • "Cyber attack disrupts Heathrow and Brussels airports". (No source)
  • Heathrow Airport's statement on social media: "We're sorry for the disruption to your travel today. We're working hard to get things back to normal. Please check the status of your flight before travelling."
  • UK Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander: "I am aware of the problem and encourage anyone who is affected to check with their airlines."

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