A cyberattack targeting check-in and boarding systems disrupted flight operations on Saturday across several major European airports, including London’s Heathrow, Berlin, Brussels, and Dublin, leading to widespread delays and cancellations.
The attack affected MUSE software, developed by Collins Aerospace, a subsidiary of RTX. While the exact nature and perpetrators remain unknown, RTX confirmed a “cyber-related disruption” at selected airports and said it was working quickly to resolve the issue.
At Heathrow, Berlin, and Brussels, at least 29 flights were canceled as of 11:30 GMT, according to data from aviation analytics firm Cirium. Brussels Airport reported four flight diversions and widespread delays, later asking airlines to cancel half of Sunday’s scheduled departures to prevent further chaos.
Officials emphasized that while the impact was significant, it was largely limited to electronic check-in and baggage drop systems, with manual processes mitigating some delays. Dublin and Cork airports in Ireland also reported minor impacts.
Authorities across the UK, Germany, and the European Union are investigating. A European Commission spokesperson said there were no current signs of a “widespread or severe attack.” However, cybersecurity experts warned the incident highlights the fragility of aviation’s digital infrastructure.
“This underscores the interdependent nature of the digital ecosystem underpinning air travel,” said Rafe Pilling, threat intelligence director at cybersecurity firm Sophos.
Passengers at Berlin and Brussels expressed frustration over lack of communication. One traveler, Kim Reisen, told Reuters: “We haven’t been told anything except there was a technical fault.”
Airlines including EasyJet, Delta, and United reported limited disruptions. British Airways and Ryanair have yet to comment. British Transport Minister Heidi Alexander and cyber defense agencies in Germany and the UK confirmed they are monitoring the situation closely.
