Flight schedule. Photo: Shutterstock Chaos at European Airports
Following a morning report on a problem at London's Heathrow Airport, it is now clear the disruptions are likely due to a cyberattack on a technology service provider operating check-in and boarding systems at several European airports, including Brussels Airport.
According to an official statement from Brussels, the attack, which occurred on Friday night, disabled check-in and boarding systems. As of Saturday morning, operations are handled manually, causing widespread delays and even flight cancellations.
Heathrow also reported that check-in services for several airlines are affected, with current estimates attributing this to the same attack on a third-party supplier. The airport's management warned of potential flight delays and advised passengers to check the flight status with their airline before coming to the airport.
At Brussels Airport, the disruptions are more severe. The airport management announced that services are currently operating manually, and passengers are requested to come to the airport only if their flight is confirmed.
Instructions for passengers departing from Brussels are:
Check the flight status with the airline before arriving at the airport
Arrive at the airport only with flight confirmation
Arrive two hours early for flights within the Schengen area and three hours for international flights
Authorities report efforts are being made to restore full service as soon as possible. However, schedule disruptions and unusual congestion at check-in counters are expected.
Both Brussels Airport Authority and Heathrow request passengers to stay updated through official information channels.
A malfunction in Dallas, USA, also caused disruptions and flight cancellations affecting thousands of passengers across the US.