Cyberattack Brings Air Travel to Standstill at Heathrow and Other European Airports

Hundreds of Flights Delayed at Heathrow and Other Airports After Apparent Cyberattack A cyber-related incident crippled airline check-in systems at major European airports over the weekend, causing significant delays for hundreds of flights. Collins Aerospace, a leading provider of technology for airline check-in desks, reported that its system was compromised on Friday. As of 11am on Sunday morning, more than 130 Heathrow flights had been delayed by 20 minutes or more, with 13 flights canceled on Saturday. The airport's social media account attributed the delays to an outage of Collins Aerospace's airline system, which impacted check-in operations. "Work continues to resolve and recover from Friday's outage," the post read. The incident has left travelers scrambling to adjust their plans, with Heathrow recommending that passengers arrive at least three hours before departure for long-haul flights and two hours beforehand for short-haul flights. According to Flightradar24 data, the affected airports included Brussels and Berlin, in addition to Heathrow. Collins Aerospace's system is used by multiple airlines, which were forced to revert to manual check-ins after the cyberattack. "We apologize to those who have faced delays," said a spokesperson for Heathrow Airport. "By working together with airlines, the vast majority of flights have continued to operate." The incident highlights the growing threat of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, including transportation systems. Collins Aerospace's system is designed to streamline check-in processes and reduce wait times, but its vulnerability to cyber threats underscores the need for robust security measures. In a statement, Collins Aerospace acknowledged the incident and assured that it was working closely with airlines and airport authorities to resolve the issue. "We are committed to providing secure and reliable solutions to our customers," said a spokesperson. The affected airports have implemented temporary measures to mitigate the impact of the delays, including increased staffing at check-in desks and baggage handling areas. As the situation continues to unfold, travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on flight schedules and any necessary adjustments. In the wake of this incident, experts warn that the aviation industry must prioritize cybersecurity to prevent similar disruptions in the future. "This is a wake-up call for the industry," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a cybersecurity expert at the University of London. "We need to invest in robust security measures and training to protect against these types of attacks." As the investigation into the cyberattack continues, travelers can expect further updates on flight schedules and airport operations. In the meantime, airlines and airports are urging passengers to plan ahead and arrive early to minimize disruptions. The incident serves as a reminder that even the most advanced technology is not immune to cyber threats. As the aviation industry grapples with the implications of this attack, it is clear that cybersecurity will be a top priority in the months and years to come. *Reporting by Techcrunch.*