Brussels, Berlin, and London Heathrow experienced severe operational disruptions this Saturday, September 20th, after a cyberattack targeted check-in and boarding systems provided by American company Collins Aerospace. The incident, which began Friday evening, forced several major airport platforms to switch to manual procedures, causing cascading flight delays and cancellations.
The cyber attack specifically targeted Collins Aerospace’s MUSE software, a subsidiary of defense conglomerate RTX (formerly Raytheon Technologies). This system manages electronic passenger check-in and baggage drop-off at numerous airports across Europe. Faced with the inability to use automated terminals, ground crews had to revert to paper check-in procedures, multiplying wait times.
Immediate Impact on Air Traffic
Brussels Airport was the hardest hit by this cyberattack. Ten flights were cancelled while seventeen others experienced delays exceeding one hour. The European regulatory authority Eurocontrol even requested airlines to cancel half of their rotations to and from the Belgian capital between 4:00 AM and 2:00 AM Sunday.
At London Heathrow, Europe’s busiest airport by traffic volume, management confirmed that technical issues could cause departure delays. Passengers were advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport. Berlin Brandenburg Airport also reported extended check-in wait times, warning of additional delays.
Aviation: A Prime Target for Hackers
This latest attack is part of a concerning trend affecting the aviation sector. According to data recently published by Thales, ransomware cyberattacks against aviation have exploded by 600% between January 2024 and April 2025. Twenty-seven major attacks were recorded during this period, involving twenty-two distinct hacker groups.
The growing interconnection of airport systems and the sector’s accelerated digitalization create new vulnerabilities. The data being manipulated – whether personal, biometric, or strategic information – represents considerable value for cybercriminals.
Hello! I’m Ben Fischer, a travel enthusiast who has journeyed far and wide to bring you unique and inspiring stories. Each destination is a new adventure for me, a chance to explore diverse cultures and share unforgettable experiences.
In my articles, I take you beyond mere descriptions of places. I share the encounters, special moments, and anecdotes that make each trip unique. My writing is an invitation to see the world through my eyes, blending practical tips with personal insights.
As a lifelong traveler, I approach each journey with respect and curiosity, eager to uncover the stories hidden in every corner of the globe.
