A cyberattack targeted passenger check-in and boarding systems at several European airports on Saturday evening, resulting in delays and flight cancellations. Affected airports include Brussels, London Heathrow, and Berlin. The service provider is currently working to resolve the issue, while temporary measures have been implemented to ensure continuity of operations.
Targeted Systems:
The cyberattack targeted systems responsible for check-in, gate access, and passenger boarding—critical systems that enable smooth operations within the airport.
Affected Airports:
Brussels Airport operations were directly impacted, as well as London Heathrow and Berlin Airports, among other European airports.
Technical Service Provider:
U.S.-based company Collins Aerospace, which provides these systems to a number of airports, announced it experienced an outage due to the attack and is now working to repair the system and restore service.
Measures Taken:
- Use of alternative methods—including manual procedures—to facilitate passenger check-in and boarding.
- Passenger assistance, including notifications advising travelers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
- Reinforced recommendation for early arrival at the airport—around three hours prior to scheduled departure for affected flights where possible.
Impact and Challenges:
The cyberattack disrupted scheduled flight timelines, causing delays and cancellations. This type of attack highlights the vulnerability of digital infrastructure in the aviation sector to cyber threats, especially when airports rely on centralized and connected systems.
Conclusion:
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of securing critical IT systems in airports and ensuring effective contingency plans for manual or semi-manual operations in the event of system disruptions. It also underscores the need for collaboration between airports, service providers, and regulatory bodies to minimize the impact on travelers and ensure a minimum operational standard during such events.