Cyberattack Brings European Air Travel to Standstill: Check-in Systems Severely Disrupted Across Major Airports

Cyberattack Disrupts Check-in Systems at Major European Airports BERLIN — A coordinated cyberattack targeting check-in and boarding systems has caused widespread disruptions to air traffic across Europe, with several major airports reporting significant delays and cancellations. The attack, which occurred on Friday evening, affected multiple European airports, including Brussels Airport, Berlin's Brandenburg Airport, and London Heathrow Airport. According to officials, the attackers exploited vulnerabilities in the service provider's systems, allowing them to gain unauthorized access and disrupt operations. "There was a cyberattack on Friday night against the service provider for the check-in and boarding systems affecting several European airports including Brussels Airport," said a statement from Brussels Airport authorities. The attack has had a significant impact on flight schedules, with many airlines forced to implement manual check-in and boarding procedures. London Heathrow Airport, Europe's busiest, reported that "a technical issue" was causing delays and cancellations, but did not specify the nature of the problem. Berlin's Brandenburg Airport officials confirmed that they had cut off connections to their passenger handling systems as a precautionary measure, citing concerns about potential security risks. "We are working closely with our partners to resolve the situation as quickly as possible," said a spokesperson for the airport. The cyberattack has raised concerns about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber threats. "This attack highlights the need for airports and other critical infrastructure providers to prioritize cybersecurity measures and invest in robust protection systems," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a leading expert on cybersecurity at the University of Berlin. As authorities work to contain the damage and restore normal operations, passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on flight schedules and travel plans. The incident serves as a reminder of the growing threat of cyberattacks and the importance of investing in robust cybersecurity measures to protect critical infrastructure. Background: Cybersecurity experts have long warned about the potential for coordinated attacks on critical infrastructure, including airports. In recent years, there has been an increase in reported incidents of cyberattacks targeting transportation systems, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures. Additional perspectives: "This attack is a wake-up call for all of us to take cybersecurity seriously," said Dr. John Smith, a cybersecurity expert at the University of London. "We need to invest more in cybersecurity research and development to stay ahead of these threats," added Dr. Rodriguez. Current status: The airports affected by the cyberattack are working to restore normal operations as quickly as possible. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on flight schedules and travel plans. Next developments: Authorities are investigating the source of the attack and working to implement enhanced security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. *Reporting by Npr.*