Cyberattack Disrupts Heathrow, Brussels, and Other European Airports

A cyberattack targeting the provider of check-in and boarding systems disrupted operations at several major European airports on Saturday, including London’s Heathrow, the continent’s busiest hub, causing flight delays and cancellations.

Collins Aerospace, which supplies systems for multiple airlines worldwide, reported a technical issue that could delay departing passengers. Heathrow Airport warned of possible disruptions, while Brussels and Berlin airports confirmed they were also affected.

RTX (RTX.N), Collins Aerospace’s parent company, acknowledged “cyber-related disruptions” at select airports but did not name specific locations.

Electronic Check-in Affected
In an emailed statement, RTX said the impact was limited to electronic passenger check-in and baggage drop, which could be mitigated through manual check-in. The company added it was working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Brussels Airport said on its website that automated systems had been taken offline since Friday night, leaving only manual check-in and boarding available. “This will have a major impact on flight schedules and unfortunately lead to delays and cancellations,” it said, noting that 10 flights had already been canceled and all departures were facing average delays of around one hour.

Berlin Airport reported longer wait times for check-in but said it was working on a swift solution. A spokesperson confirmed that Frankfurt Airport, Germany’s busiest, was not affected. Zurich Airport also reported no disruption.

Airlines Respond
Delta Air Lines (DAL.N) said it expected only minimal disruption to flights from the three affected airports and had implemented a workaround to ease delays. EasyJet (EZJ.L), one of Europe’s largest carriers, said it was operating normally and did not anticipate further impact for the day. Ryanair (RYA.I) and IAG (ICAG.L), the parent company of British Airways, did not immediately comment.

Authorities said there was no broader security threat. Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Digital Affairs Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski confirmed that Polish airports had not received any indication of risk. UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she was receiving regular updates on the situation.