Massive cyberattack targets major European airports, flight ops disrupted at Brussels, Berlin, London Heathrow airports; attack happened due to…

A major cyberattack caused flight delays and cancellations at various airports across Europe as automated boarding and check-in system were forced offline, leaving only manual services operational.

A massive cyberattack targeted a service provider resulting in flight operations, including being disrupted at major airports across Europe on Saturday including Brussels, London Heathrow and Berlin airport. According to media reports, the cyberattack targeted a single service provider providing check-in and boarding systems at major European airports.

Which airports were targeted?

As per reports, the cyberattack caused delays and cancellations at various airports across Europe as automated boarding and check-in system were forced offline, leaving only manual services operational.

In a statement, Berlin Airport confirmed the attack took place on late Friday night, forcibly shutting down automated systems, leaving only manual check-in and boarding options. “There was a cyberattack on Friday night, 19 September, against the service provider for the check-in and boarding systems affecting several European airports, including Brussels Airport,” the airport said.

According to the airport statement, the its service provider was “actively working on the issue”, while advising passengers to check flight status with their airline before heading to the airport. It also urged travelers to arrive two hours in advance for Schengen flights and three hours for international departures.

What did airports say?

London Heathrow Airport said Collins Aerospace, a global company that provides check-in and boarding systems to several airlines, was facing a technical issue linked to the disruption. “Collins Aerospace is experiencing a technical issue that may cause delays for departing passengers,” Heathrow posted on X.

Passengers were asked not to arrive more than three hours before long-haul flights or two hours for domestic flights.

“While the provider works to resolve the problem quickly, we advise passengers to check their flight status with their airline before travelling. Please arrive no earlier than three hours before a long-haul flight or two hours before a domestic flight. Additional colleagues are available in check-in areas to assist and help minimise disruption., ” Heathrow added.

Berlin Airport also reported longer waiting times at check-in, citing a technical issue at a “system provider operating across Europe.” It said teams were working on a quick solution.

Authorities and airlines have not provided a timeline for the full restoration of services.

(With inputs from agencies)