Flights across European airports continue to experience significant delays, with over 140 at Heathrow, and some cancellations on Saturday.
The disruption was caused by a technical issue with software from Collins Aerospace on Friday night. The company is responsible for the automated check-in and boarding systems for many airlines, which has caused major problems for thousands of passengers. According to Hermes, there have been no issues reported at Cypriot airports so far.
Chaos in Heathrow, Brussels, and Berlin
London’s Heathrow Airport announced that the provider is working to restore the service, advising travelers to check their flight status before departing and not to arrive earlier than three hours for international and two hours for domestic flights. “We have deployed additional staff to limit the inconvenience,” a spokesperson said, apologising for the disruption.
In Brussels, check-in and boarding procedures are temporarily being carried out manually only. The airport assured that efforts are being made for a speedy restoration.
In Berlin, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) warned of longer waiting times at check-in counters due to the problem with the European systems provider.
Knock-on delays
The attack has caused flight cancellations and major delays, inconveniencing thousands of passengers. Heathrow pointed out that this is the third serious operational disruption in a few weeks, following two similar incidents in July and August.
The extent of the attack is being examined
Frankfurt Airport announced that it has not been affected by the incident. Authorities are examining the full extent of the cyber attack and the motives behind it, with no findings on the perpetrators announced so far.
Cyprus not affected
Hermes Airports confirmed that Cypriot airports have not been affected by the cyberattack.
(Information from protothema.gr)
