Cybersecurity Breach Disrupts Major Airports Across Europe: Delays Hit Passengers at Brussels, Heathrow, and Berlin, Affecting Etihad Airways Operations

Published on September 21, 2025

A recent cyberattack targeting multiple European airports has left many travelers frustrated as flight check-in systems were compromised, causing widespread delays and cancellations. Key airports such as Brussels, Berlin, and London Heathrow saw significant disruptions in their automated systems, forcing staff to rely on manual processes. Etihad Airways, among the affected airlines, faced longer-than-usual check-in times at these airports, while Emirates reported minimal impact on its operations. With increased cyber threats plaguing the aviation sector, it has become evident that global airports are highly vulnerable to cyber disruptions.

Affected Airports and Airlines

The cyberattack primarily impacted three major European airports:

• Brussels Airport (BRU) – The hardest hit, Brussels Airport experienced severe delays, with more than 10 flights cancelled and 17 others delayed for over an hour. Staff was forced to manually check in passengers and process baggage drops. Eurocontrol, the European air navigation service provider, instructed airlines to cancel half of the flights departing from Brussels between early morning and late evening on Saturday, September 20.
• London Heathrow (LHR) – One of the busiest airports in the world, Heathrow reported check-in system failures, causing delays at the airport. Passengers were advised to arrive earlier than usual due to longer processing times. Although the disruption did not result in widespread flight cancellations, there were significant delays as the technical issues persisted.
• Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) – Berlin also faced issues with check-in systems being compromised, leading to longer waiting times for travelers. Passengers departing from this airport were encouraged to prepare for manual check-in, which further extended wait times.

Etihad Airways, a major airline operating at these airports, confirmed delays in its services. However, the airline worked to manage the situation by offering assistance to affected passengers, including support during check-in and efforts to restore systems promptly. In contrast, Emirates Airlines reported no significant operational disruptions, with their staff advising passengers to check in online and to expect manual processing where necessary.

The Impact on Passengers

Travelers at Brussels, Heathrow, and Berlin airports faced considerable challenges. Check-in systems that usually handle passengers smoothly were affected by the cyberattack, forcing many to stand in long queues as airport staff manually processed check-ins and baggage drops. Flight delays and cancellations left passengers stranded, unable to board flights on time, and many were unsure of when they could expect to be rebooked or if their flight would be rescheduled. The stress of dealing with such disruptions was compounded by the limited communication from affected airlines and airports, leaving travelers in a state of uncertainty.

The impact was particularly significant for business and leisure travelers heading to and from Europe. Many had urgent travel commitments, and with systems down, they faced delays in reaching meetings or enjoying their vacations. Pilgrims traveling to religious sites or those attending time-sensitive events were especially affected, as rescheduling flights was not always a feasible option.

What Should Travelers Do?

For travelers planning to fly through major European airports, particularly those in Brussels, London, and Berlin, it’s advisable to:

1. Arrive Early: Due to manual check-in and baggage drop processes, passengers should arrive at the airport well in advance of their scheduled departure to account for longer waiting times.
2. Check for Online Updates: Airlines and airports may update their passengers via online platforms. It’s crucial to stay updated to understand the status of flights and avoid unnecessary waiting.
3. Prepare for Manual Check-ins: In cases where the automated systems are still affected, be prepared for delays in the check-in process. Plan to have additional time available for check-in.
4. Book Flexible Tickets: If possible, book flexible tickets that allow easy rebooking in case of cancellations, especially if traveling on tight schedules or during peak seasons.

Increased Cybersecurity Risks in Aviation

This cyberattack is just one example of how cybercriminals are increasingly targeting the aviation sector. According to recent reports, cyberattacks on airports and airlines have surged by 600% over the past year. These attacks often compromise critical systems, such as check-in and baggage handling, and can lead to flight delays, cancellations, and safety concerns.

The rise in cyber threats underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity measures within the aviation sector. While airports have manual backup systems in place, these are not always enough to mitigate the disruption caused by widespread cyberattacks. As air travel becomes more reliant on interconnected systems, airports and airlines must bolster their defenses against these growing risks.

Rebuilding Trust in the Travel Industry

The aviation industry, having been battered by challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and now these cyberattacks, must work to restore trust among travelers. Airlines and airports need to invest in more secure, reliable systems to prevent similar disruptions in the future. Providing transparent communication during crises and offering immediate support to affected passengers will also help rebuild confidence in air travel.

The impact of these disruptions on local tourism can be profound. In the case of Brussels, the delays affected tourism to the region, especially for travelers heading to Belgium for cultural events or leisure trips. For travelers who had planned to visit iconic attractions in London or Berlin, these delays led to cancellations of their sightseeing plans. In such cases, it’s important for the tourism sector to work in tandem with airlines and airports to minimize the effects on travel and ensure that tourists still have access to a seamless experience.

Moving Forward: A Resilient Tourism Sector

While the aviation sector grapples with the aftermath of the cyberattack, there is room for optimism. With increased collaboration between airports, airlines, and technology providers, the sector can build resilience against future cyber disruptions. By focusing on stronger cybersecurity measures, clearer communication, and better contingency plans, the travel industry can emerge stronger from these challenges.

A key takeaway from this disruption is the necessity for both travelers and the aviation industry to prepare for unforeseen circumstances. Whether dealing with cybersecurity threats or other logistical challenges, it’s essential to ensure that passengers are well-informed and equipped to handle unexpected disruptions.