Heathrow Airport Paralyzed by Widespread Cyber-Attack on Check-In Systems

Heathrow Cyber-Attack Causes Day of Delays After Airport Check-In System Hit A cyber-attack on Saturday brought significant disruption to Heathrow airport, causing a day of delays for passengers as the electronic check-in and baggage system was affected. The attack, which also impacted Brussels and Berlin airports, resulted in manual check-ins and longer waiting times. According to RTX, the company that owns software provider Collins Aerospace, the cyber-related disruption was limited to electronic customer check-in and baggage drop operations. "The impact can be mitigated with manual check-in operations," a spokesperson for RTX said. The company added that it was working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. Heathrow airport confirmed that several flights were delayed due to a technical issue affecting software provided to several airlines. Passengers were forced to queue manually, leading to significant delays and disruption. The cyber-attack on Friday night meant that passengers at Brussels Airport were being checked in and boarded manually. Berlin's Brandenburg Airport also reported longer waiting times due to the problem. RTX said its Muse software, which allows different airlines to use the same check-in desks and boarding gates at an airport, had been affected by the cyber-attack. The company explained that this software was designed to streamline operations for airlines, but it appears to have left airports vulnerable to disruption. The incident raises questions about the security of airport systems and the potential for cyber-attacks to cause widespread disruption. "Cybersecurity is a growing concern for airports around the world," said an industry expert. "This incident highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures to be in place." Heathrow has since confirmed that it is working with RTX to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on flight schedules and any further disruptions. The current status of the situation is that Heathrow airport is still experiencing delays, but efforts are being made to return to normal operations as soon as possible. RTX has assured passengers that it is working around the clock to resolve the issue. In a statement, Heathrow said: "We apologize for the disruption caused by this technical issue and appreciate the patience of our passengers. We are working closely with our airline partners and RTX to resolve the issue as quickly as possible." The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of robust cybersecurity measures in protecting airport systems from cyber-attacks. As technology continues to play an increasingly important role in aviation, it is essential that airports prioritize cybersecurity to prevent similar incidents in the future. Background: The Muse software used by RTX was designed to streamline operations for airlines and reduce costs. However, its vulnerability to cyber-attacks raises questions about the security of airport systems. Additional perspectives: Industry experts have expressed concerns about the potential for cyber-attacks to cause widespread disruption at airports. "Cybersecurity is a growing concern for airports around the world," said an expert. "This incident highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures to be in place." Next developments: Heathrow and RTX are working together to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on flight schedules and any further disruptions. Attributions: RTX spokesperson Industry expert Heathrow statement *Reporting by Bbc.*