European Airports Still Dealing With Disruptions Days After Ransomware Attack
European airports are still dealing with disruptions days after ransomware attack crippled critical check-in and boarding systems across the continent. The cyberattack, targeting Collins Aerospace—a key provider of airport IT infrastructure—has caused widespread delays and left passengers stranded in major travel hubs.
Image Credits:Maja Smiejkowska/PA Images / Getty Images
Flight Delays Across Europe
According to live tracking site FlightRadar24, the situation remains severe:
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London Heathrow: 90% of flights delayed, average wait 29 minutes
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Brussels Airport: 88% delayed, average wait 43 minutes
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Berlin Brandenburg: 94% delayed, average wait 1 hour
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Dublin Airport: 91% delayed, average wait 26 minutes
The ongoing outages mark the fourth consecutive day of chaos for European travelers.
Airlines Forced Into Manual Workarounds
Dublin Airport spokesperson Graeme McQueen confirmed that there is still no timeline for a permanent fix. Airlines are relying on manual check-in and boarding procedures, which are significantly slowing down operations.
He added that technical teams are working around the clock, but passengers should brace for long queues and uncertainty until systems are restored.
Airports Respond To The Crisis
Brussels Airport announced on X (formerly Twitter) that “limited disruptions” are expected to continue through Tuesday and Wednesday. Its official website echoed this, noting that Collins Aerospace is “actively working on the issue” but gave no estimate for full recovery.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport issued a similar warning on its website, alerting passengers to “longer waiting times” and urging travelers to arrive early.
Meanwhile, spokespeople for Heathrow, Brussels, and Berlin airports have not provided further updates, leaving passengers frustrated with the lack of clarity.
Cybersecurity Agencies Confirm Ransomware Attack
On Monday, the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) confirmed that the disruptions were caused by a ransomware attack against Collins Aerospace. This revelation has heightened concerns about the vulnerability of Europe’s critical infrastructure to cyberattacks.
Experts warn that the aviation industry—already struggling with post-pandemic staffing shortages—is now facing a new era of cyber threats that could disrupt millions of travelers.
What Passengers Should Know
Travelers flying in and out of Europe are being advised to:
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Arrive early to account for slower check-in processes.
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Monitor flight updates directly from airlines and airports.
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Expect delays throughout the week until systems are fully restored.
The ransomware attack has not only paralyzed key systems but also highlighted the fragility of global air travel networks when targeted by cybercriminals.
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