Major Cyber Attack Disrupts Operations at Key European Airports

Major European airports, including Heathrow in London, Berlin, and Brussels, experienced significant disruptions due to a cyber attack on March 15, 2024. The incident primarily affected automated check-in and baggage drop systems, leading to delays and warnings of potential flight cancellations.

Collins Aerospace, the service provider responsible for the affected systems, confirmed the disruption. “We have become aware of a cyber-related disruption to our Muse software in select airports,” the company stated. The impact has been concentrated on electronic customer check-in and baggage processes, with Collins Aerospace noting that manual check-in operations could mitigate the situation.

As the incident unfolded, travelers at these busy air hubs reported long queues and increased wait times. Many passengers faced delays in boarding their flights, disrupting travel plans for thousands. Airlines operating out of these airports are working to manage the situation and minimize inconvenience to passengers.

“The impact is limited to electronic systems, and we are working closely with airport authorities to resolve the issues,” Collins Aerospace added.

Officials from the affected airports are coordinating with Collins Aerospace to restore normal operations as quickly as possible. As of now, the exact cause of the cyber attack remains unclear, and investigations are underway to assess the full scope of the incident. Authorities are urging passengers to check with their airlines for the latest updates on flight statuses and any possible delays.

The cyber attack highlights the vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, particularly in the aviation sector, where even brief disruptions can lead to substantial operational challenges. As authorities continue to investigate, the focus will also be on enhancing security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Passengers are advised to remain patient and stay informed through official communications from their airlines and airport authorities as operations gradually return to normal.