Cyberattack Paralyzes Check-in Systems at European Airports

A cyber disruption on the check-in and baggage drop systems provided by Collins Aerospace (parent company: RTX) caused several major airports in Europe — including Heathrow, Brussels, and Berlin — to switch to manual processes. As a result, flight delays and some cancellations occurred.

What happened

Several major European airports experienced operational disruptions after the check-in and boarding system provider reported a “cyber-related disruption” in their software. According to a statement issued by RTX — Collins Aerospace’s parent company — the issue affected electronic check-in functions and baggage drop services at several airports, forcing airport staff to revert to manual processes to serve passengers.

Identified airports and impacts

• Heathrow (London): As the busiest airport in Europe, Heathrow recorded disruptions causing passenger confusion and delays. A journalist on-site reported a lack of information from the involved airlines, making the situation chaotic and frustrating for passengers.

• Brussels: The airport stated that the automated system has not been functioning since Friday night. This condition severely impacted schedules—reports indicate cancellations and an average delay of about one hour for departing flights. As of the initial report, around 10 flights were canceled.

• Berlin: The airport notified that wait times at check-in counters increased due to switching to manual processes and is seeking a quick solution. Some passengers reported a lack of clear information, only being told there was a “technical disruption.”

• Frankfurt: Not affected, according to the airport spokesperson.

Collins Aerospace / RTX and airline responses

RTX confirmed the presence of a cyber-related disruption in their software but did not name the affected airports in their statement. The company emphasized the impact was limited to electronic check-in and baggage drop and is working to fix the issue as soon as possible. They also stressed that manual operations can be used as a mitigation measure.

Source: theglobeandmail