Cyber Attacks Disrupt European Airports: What Travelers Need to Know

Image Source: BBC

Recent cyber attacks on European airports have led to significant disruptions, causing delays and complications for travelers. This incident came to light following issues reported at major airports including **Heathrow**, **Brussels**, and **Berlin’s Brandenburg Airport**. The attacks reportedly targeted a specific check-in and baggage system used across several airlines, creating a chaotic environment as airport staff struggled to manage passenger flows manually.

Details of the Cyber Attack Incident

The attack, which started late Friday night, primarily affected electronic check-in processes. Collins Aerospace, the software provider for the affected systems, acknowledged the disruption and stated they were working to rectify the situation. Passengers at major hubs like Heathrow reported lengthy delays, with some waiting for hours just to check in.

Heathrow’s response included deploying additional staff to assist passengers and advising them to check their flight status before arriving at the airport. The disruption affected multiple airlines, although British Airways managed to operate normally using a backup system. In stark contrast, many travelers described overwhelming queues and frustration as they navigated through manual check-in procedures.

As the hours progressed, airlines have been adjusting schedules with reports indicating hundreds of delayed flights across multiple destinations. Flight tracker **FlightAware** reported widespread delays affecting travel plans significantly during a busy travel period.

Impact on Travel and Next Steps for Passengers

Passengers shared harrowing experiences on social media. One traveler mentioned waiting for over two hours just to check in for a Malaysia Airlines flight. Others recounted being sent from boarding gates back to check-in areas due to system failures. There were complaints of missing onward connections and the unavailability of mobility aids for passengers in need.

• Heathrow and several other European airports are experiencing severe delays.
• Passengers are advised to check in manually as automated systems are down.
• Reports of multi-hour wait times have surfaced across various terminals.
• Travelers should confirm flight information directly with their airlines.

Cybersecurity Assessment Following the Incident

The incident prompted the attention of authorities such as the **National Cyber Security Centre**, which is collaborating with Collins Aerospace to assess the situation. While initial reports suggest the attack is not widespread or particularly severe, the potential for similar incidents in the future is raising concerns among cybersecurity experts.

In light of this attack, discussions revolving around the responsibility of cybersecurity for critical infrastructure are resurfacing. Some have speculated about possible links to state-sponsored hacking groups, although the current knowledge base does not conclusively attribute the attack to any group.

Advice for Travelers Amid Cyber Attacks

While disruptions may continue at various European airports, experts encourage travelers to stay informed. Here are some steps you can take:

• Always check with your airline regarding your flight status before heading to the airport.
• Arrive no earlier than three hours for international flights or two hours for domestic flights.
• Be prepared for manual check-in processes, which may include longer wait times.