European Airports Experience Disruptions Following Suspected Cyberattack – What Travelers Need to Know
A widespread technical issue, believed to be linked to a cyberattack, caused notable disruption to air travel across Europe this weekend. While teh vast majority of flights continued to operate, passengers experienced delays and cancellations at major hubs like brussels, Berlin, and Heathrow.Here’s a breakdown of what happened, what you need to know if you’re affected, and the growing threat of cyberattacks on the aviation industry.
What Happened?
The problems began Friday with reports of issues with passenger check-in software provided by Collins Aerospace. The company, a subsidiary of RTX (formerly Raytheon), confirmed they are “actively working to resolve the issue and restore full functionality.” Airports quickly felt the impact, with systems experiencing outages and longer-than-usual wait times.
Impacted Airports & Reported Disruptions (as of September 21, 2025):
* Brussels Airport: 45 of 257 departing flights were cancelled, with delays ranging from 30 to 90 minutes.
* Berlin Airport: Over 70 flights were delayed by midday, though some departures remained on schedule. The airport advised passengers to utilize online check-in, self-service kiosks, and fast bag drop services.
* Heathrow Airport: Experienced ongoing delays, as reported by The Guardian.
* Münster/Osnabrück Airport: Indirectly affected, but successfully transitioned to internal IT infrastructure to maintain operations. Flights departed on schedule Saturday evening.
* Other European Airports: Reports indicate disruptions across the continent, highlighting the interconnected nature of modern air travel.
What Does This Meen for You?
If you are traveling from or through a European airport, here’s what you should do:
* Check Your Flight Status: Before heading to the airport, always confirm your flight’s status directly with your airline.
* Allow Extra Time: Expect longer queues and potential delays,even if your flight is currently listed as on time. Arrive at the airport with ample time to navigate potential disruptions.
* Utilize Online Check-In: Where available, complete check-in online to streamline the process and reduce wait times at the airport.
* Stay Informed: Monitor airport websites and social media channels for the latest updates.
The Rising Threat of Cyberattacks in Aviation
This incident underscores a growing concern: the vulnerability of the aviation industry to cyberattacks. Air travel increasingly relies on complex, interconnected digital systems, making it a prime target.
Consider these key points:
* Dramatic Increase in Attacks: A recent report by Thales revealed a staggering 600% increase in cyberattacks targeting the aviation sector between 2024 and 2025.
* Vulnerable Points: Every aspect of the aviation ecosystem – airlines,airports,navigation systems,and suppliers – is possibly vulnerable.
* Strategic Importance: The aviation sector’s critical role in global commerce and security makes it an attractive target for malicious actors.
As aviation expert Anita Mendiratta, a special advisor to the UN tourism secretary general, noted, determining the source of this particular attack is challenging.However,the trend is clear: cybersecurity must be a top priority for the industry.
Looking ahead
This weekend’s disruptions serve as a stark reminder of the potential impact of cyberattacks on air travel. While airlines and airports are working to enhance their security measures, passengers should remain vigilant and prepared for potential disruptions. Proactive planning and staying informed are your best defenses when navigating these challenges.
Resources:
* The Local: Flights disrupted across Europe after ‘cyber-related disruption’
* [The Guardian: Delays continue at Heathrow,Brussels and Berlin airports after alleged cyber attack](https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/sep/21/delays-continue-at-heathrow-brussels-and-berlin-airports-after-alleged-
Worth a look