european airports still dealing with disruptions days Major European airports are grappling with ongoing flight delays and operational disruptions following a significant ransomware attack targeting Collins Aerospace, a key provider of check-in systems.
european airports still dealing with disruptions days
Overview of the Incident
On September 19, 2025, Collins Aerospace, a subsidiary of Raytheon Technologies, fell victim to a sophisticated ransomware attack. This incident has had a cascading effect on several major European airports, particularly in Berlin, Brussels, Dublin, and London. The attack compromised the check-in systems that are crucial for managing passenger flow and flight operations, leading to widespread delays and cancellations.
Impact on Airports
The ramifications of the attack have been felt acutely across the affected airports. Each of these hubs plays a critical role in European air travel, and the disruption has raised concerns about the resilience of airport infrastructure in the face of cyber threats.
- Berlin Airports: Both Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) and Tegel Airport have reported significant delays, with many flights being postponed or rerouted. Passengers have expressed frustration as they navigate the chaos, with some waiting hours for updates on their flights.
- Brussels Airport: Brussels Airport has also faced challenges, with long queues forming at check-in counters. The airport has urged travelers to arrive earlier than usual to accommodate potential delays, further complicating travel plans for many.
- Dublin Airport: Dublin Airport has seen a ripple effect, with delays impacting both incoming and outgoing flights. The airport has been working closely with airlines to minimize disruptions, but the situation remains fluid.
- London Airports: London Heathrow and Gatwick have been among the hardest hit, with numerous flights experiencing delays. The British Airports Authority has been in constant communication with airlines and passengers to manage the fallout.
Collins Aerospace’s Role
Collins Aerospace provides essential technology and services that facilitate check-in processes, baggage handling, and other critical operations at airports. The company’s systems are integral to ensuring smooth passenger experiences and operational efficiency. The ransomware attack has not only affected the company’s internal operations but has also highlighted vulnerabilities in the broader aviation sector.
In a statement, Collins Aerospace acknowledged the attack and confirmed that it was working diligently to restore services. The company has not disclosed specific details about the nature of the attack or the extent of the data compromised, which has led to speculation regarding the potential motivations behind the cyber intrusion.
Nature of the Ransomware Attack
The ransomware attack on Collins Aerospace is part of a growing trend of cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure. Ransomware attacks have become increasingly common, with hackers exploiting vulnerabilities in systems to gain access and demand payment for restoring services. This particular incident underscores the need for heightened cybersecurity measures across the aviation industry.
Potential Motivations
While the specific motivations behind the Collins Aerospace attack remain unclear, ransomware attacks are often financially motivated. Cybercriminals typically seek to extort money from organizations by encrypting their data and demanding a ransom for decryption keys. In some cases, attackers may also aim to steal sensitive information, which can be sold on the dark web or used for further attacks.
Response from Authorities
In response to the attack, various authorities have been mobilized to address the situation. The European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) has issued alerts to member states, urging them to bolster their cybersecurity defenses. Additionally, national cybersecurity agencies are collaborating with Collins Aerospace to investigate the attack and mitigate its effects.
Law enforcement agencies have also been engaged, with investigations underway to identify the perpetrators behind the attack. Cybersecurity experts emphasize the importance of a coordinated response to such incidents, as they often involve complex networks of criminal organizations operating across borders.
Stakeholder Reactions
The response from stakeholders has been varied, with airlines, airport authorities, and passengers expressing their concerns and frustrations. Airlines have been particularly vocal about the impact on their operations, as delays can lead to significant financial losses.
Airlines’ Perspective
Airlines operating at the affected airports have been working tirelessly to manage the fallout from the disruptions. Many have issued statements urging passengers to check their flight statuses and remain patient as the situation unfolds. Some airlines have even offered flexibility in rebooking options to accommodate travelers affected by the delays.
“We understand the frustration that our passengers are experiencing,” said a spokesperson for one of the major airlines. “We are doing everything we can to minimize the impact of these disruptions and appreciate the understanding of our customers during this challenging time.”
Passenger Experiences
Passengers have taken to social media to express their frustrations, sharing stories of long waits and lack of information from airport staff. Many have reported feeling stranded as they navigate the uncertainty surrounding their travel plans. The situation has been exacerbated by the ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, which had already strained airport resources.
“I’ve been waiting for hours with no updates,” said one passenger at Dublin Airport. “It’s incredibly frustrating, especially when you have a connecting flight to catch.”
Broader Implications for Cybersecurity in Aviation
The ransomware attack on Collins Aerospace serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist within the aviation sector. As technology continues to advance, so too do the tactics employed by cybercriminals. This incident raises several important questions about the future of cybersecurity in aviation.
Need for Enhanced Cybersecurity Measures
Experts argue that the aviation industry must prioritize cybersecurity to protect against future attacks. This includes investing in advanced security technologies, conducting regular security audits, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness among employees. Collaboration between airlines, airport authorities, and technology providers is essential to create a robust defense against cyber threats.
Regulatory Considerations
Regulatory bodies may also need to reevaluate existing frameworks to ensure that they adequately address the evolving landscape of cyber threats. This could involve establishing stricter guidelines for cybersecurity practices within the aviation sector and mandating regular reporting of incidents to enhance transparency.
Conclusion
The ongoing disruptions at major European airports following the ransomware attack on Collins Aerospace highlight the critical need for enhanced cybersecurity measures within the aviation industry. As authorities and stakeholders work to mitigate the impact of the attack, the incident serves as a wake-up call for the sector to prioritize cybersecurity and safeguard against future threats.
As the situation continues to evolve, passengers are advised to stay informed and check with their airlines for updates on flight statuses. The resilience of the aviation industry will be tested in the coming days as it navigates the challenges posed by this cyberattack.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: September 23, 2025 at 7:47 pm
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