Flights have been delayed or cancelled at three major European airports, including London’s Heathrow, after the company that provides check-in and boarding software reported a cyber-attack.
Airports in Brussels and Berlin are also facing delays and disruptions due to the incident, which involves Collins Aerospace—a company that works with multiple airlines at airports worldwide.
The attack has raised concerns about the reliability of systems that support critical infrastructure. A cybersecurity expert warned that the disruption could potentially spread to more airports. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she is being kept informed of the situation.
“I’m aware of an incident affecting airline check-in and boarding, impacting flights at Heathrow and other European airports,” Alexander said. “I’m receiving regular updates and monitoring the situation. If you’re flying from Heathrow today, check with your airline before you travel.”
The attack targeted Collins’ Muse software. The company is a subsidiary of RTX, which offers cybersecurity advice to other firms and provides services supporting military operations.
Heathrow advised passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport and not to arrive more than three hours before a long-haul flight or two hours before a domestic one.
Brussels Airport said the attack occurred on Friday night, forcing staff to handle check-in and boarding manually. The airport stated that the issue lies with Collins and warned of significant delays and cancellations. Passengers were advised to confirm their flight status with their airline and only come to the airport if their flight is confirmed.
Berlin Airport reported longer waiting times at check-in due to a technical issue with a Europe-wide system provider and said they are working on a solution.
Collins Aerospace confirmed a “cyber-related disruption” affecting its Muse software at certain airports and said they are working to restore full service as soon as possible. Manual check-in procedures can help reduce the impact, the company added.
Professor Alan Woodward, a cybersecurity expert at the University of Surrey, said the incident raises questions about why airports seem to rely on Collins to resolve the Muse software problem. He suggested the system is likely centralized, meaning a shutdown could cause widespread disruption. He also wondered why only three airports were affected so far, raising the possibility that attackers may have targeted only some of the airports using the system.
One passenger, Maria Casey from Aldershot, was heading to Thailand for a backpacking holiday but faced a three-hour queue due to manual baggage check-in. She said only two desks were open, and she didn’t learn about the cyber-attack until hours later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful and clear FAQs about the flight disruptions at Heathrow due to the European cyberattack
General Information
Q Whats happening with flights at Heathrow
A Many flights are being delayed or cancelled because a cyberattack has disrupted IT systems at airports across Europe which is affecting operations
Q Is this just a problem at Heathrow
A No the cyberattack is affecting multiple airports and airlines across Europe Heathrow is one of the major hubs experiencing significant disruption
Q What is a cyberattack in this context
A It means hackers have targeted and disrupted the computer systems that airports and airlines use for critical operations like checkin baggage handling and flight planning
For Passengers with Booked Flights
Q My flight is todaytomorrow What should I do
A Do not go to the airport without checking first Check your flight status directly on your airlines website or app as it will have the most uptodate information
Q How will I know if my flight is cancelled
A Your airline should contact you via email or text message using the contact details you provided when booking However you should also proactively check their website
Q What are my rights if my flight is cancelled
A Under UKEU passenger rights laws you are likely entitled to a choice of a full refund rebooking on an alternative flight or care
Q Who do I contact for help the airport or the airline
A Always contact your airline first They are responsible for your flight rebooking and providing compensation The airport cannot manage individual bookings
Q Will travel insurance cover this
A It depends on your policy Many comprehensive policies include coverage for travel disruption caused by cyberattacks Check your policy wording or contact your insurer
Practical Tips Advice
Q Should I still try to travel
A Unless your travel is essential it is highly recommended to postpone your trip The situation is fluid and airports will be extremely crowded with stranded passengers
Q Im already at the airport and my flight is cancelled What now
A Find your airlines help desk They are obligated to provide you with assistance which may include rebooking
