Cyberattack Disrupts Check-In Systems at Key European Airports
Major European airports, including London Heathrow, Brussels, and Berlin, faced significant operational disruptions following a cyberattack targeting Collins Aerospace’s check-in and boarding technology. The incident, unfolding over September 20-21, 2025, led to flight cancellations and delays affecting thousands of travelers.Details of the Cyberattack and Affected Systems
Collins Aerospace, a provider of check-in and boarding systems used by numerous airlines worldwide, experienced a cyber-related disruption impacting its MUSE software platform. RTX, Collins Aerospace’s parent company, acknowledged the issue and confirmed it primarily affected electronic check-in and baggage drop processes.“The impact is limited to electronic customer check-in and baggage drop and can be mitigated with manual check-in operations,” RTX stated, emphasizing efforts to restore normal operations promptly.Operational Impact Across European Airports
Heathrow, the United Kingdom’s busiest airport, alongside Brussels and Berlin airports, reported numerous flight cancellations and delays. By Sunday morning, Cirium analytics recorded 38 departures and 33 arrivals canceled across these airports, with Brussels experiencing the highest disruption. Airports adopted manual check-in and baggage procedures to maintain operations, although passengers faced extended wait times. Heathrow advised travelers to check flight statuses before arrival and recommended arriving no earlier than necessary to reduce congestion.“By working together with airlines, the vast majority of flights have continued to operate despite the disruption,” Heathrow Airport said in an official communication.
Context: Rising Cybersecurity Threats in Aviation
This cyberattack adds to a growing list of high-profile cybersecurity incidents affecting major industries. Recent attacks on Jaguar Land Rover and Marks & Spencer have similarly disrupted operations and financial performance. Charlotte Wilson, head of enterprise at Check Point, highlighted the aviation sector’s vulnerability due to its reliance on shared third-party digital platforms. She noted that when a single vendor is compromised, the ripple effects can cause extensive cross-border disruption.“These attacks often strike through the supply chain, exploiting third-party platforms used by multiple airlines and airports,” Wilson said. “A joined-up defence is essential to contain and mitigate such threats effectively.” Wilson recommended regular software updates, robust backup systems, and enhanced information sharing among technology providers, airlines, and governments to bolster resilience against future cyberattacks.FinOracleAI — Market View
The recent cyberattack on Collins Aerospace underscores the increasing cybersecurity risks facing the aviation industry, particularly due to its dependence on interconnected digital platforms. While manual workarounds mitigated immediate operational impacts, the incident exposed critical vulnerabilities with potential for broader disruptions.- Opportunities: Strengthening cybersecurity protocols and enhancing collaboration between technology providers, airlines, and regulators can improve resilience.
- Risks: Continued reliance on shared systems without robust safeguards may lead to recurring disruptions, regulatory scrutiny, and reputational damage.
- Investment in advanced threat detection and rapid response capabilities will be essential for maintaining operational continuity.
- Cross-border coordination is critical given the international nature of aviation infrastructure and cyber threats.
