Thousands of travellers were affected following a severe Cyber Attack that brought airline functions to a halt at several major airports across Europe. The main computer systems that handle passenger information, check-in, and scheduling were the target for hackers. The disruption quickly spread and severely delayed Heathrow Airport, one of the world’s busiest airports, while also causing cancellations.
Cyber Attack Disrupts Flight
At Heathrow, hundreds of flights were delayed and dozens were cancelled. As mechanics scrambled to get things under control, passengers watched departure boards flash on and off. While some never left the gate, others departed several hours behind schedule. As airlines struggled to rebook passengers onto existing flights, families, tourists, and business travellers had to spend the night.
Travellers Face Disruption
Panic and confusion were documented by passengers at Heathrow. As passengers tried to check in by hand, massive lineups occupied airports. Foreign travellers missed important connections, and families with small kids spent the entire night on the floor. While some passengers received aid and vouchers for food, most complained about the confusing message.
Airlines Delays
The airlines, in turn, added more staff at counters and call centres. To manage rebooking of passengers and consumer complaints, the crews worked round the clock, demonstrating their dedication and commitment. Some of airlines also offered stranded travelers hotel accommodations and rebooking cancellation charges. Despite that, there were extensive delays in customer support due to the large number of affected travellers.
Officials Act
To segregate the affected systems, Heathrow authorities coordinated with cybersecurity experts and European aviation authorities. The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority initiated an instant inquiry into the breach. Government officials condemned the cyberattack and emphasised that national security units have collaborated to identify the hackers.
European Airport
Heathrow was not the only airport affected by the cyberattack. Similar disruptions were experienced in airports across Europe, including France, Italy, Spain, and Germany. The widespread cancellations at these European hubs had a ripple effect, causing disruptions for flights in the Middle East, North America, and Asia. The full recovery of the European aviation network from this cyberattack may take days, as warned by analysts.
Passengers
Travellers posted about their experiences on social media. Some posted photos of full departure lounges, while others complained about ruined business meetings, missed weddings, and lost holidays. Stories of families stranded and angry tourists quickly picked up momentum, emphasising the human toll of the cyberattack.
Cybersecurity
UK government ministers have pledged rapid action to protect airport systems against future cyberattacks. They have reiterated their commitment to strengthening cybersecurity defences in collaboration with European allies. The government has also made it clear that it will pursue legal action against those responsible for the cyberattack. The protection of airport infrastructure is a matter of national urgency, and the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of the aviation sector.
Delays
Delays may continue for days, experts say. Adjusting passengers’ schedules, crew and aircraft rotations requires time. While authorities keep repairing the affected systems, travellers face ongoing uncertainty. Travellers were cautioned by experts to monitor airline websites carefully and be prepared for any updates.
Outlook
Heathrow remained operational and flights kept departing at a diminished capacity despite the inconvenience. Airlines notified passengers that operations were progressively resuming. Authorities told travellers to go early, be patient, and expect longer wait times. Despite the immense trouble caused by the incident, ongoing efforts to restore order and resume operations provide hope for the future.
