A cyberattack targeting Collins Aerospace’s MUSE software has disrupted operations at several major European airports, including London’s Heathrow, Brussels, and Berlin. The attack has crippled automated check-in and boarding systems, forcing airports to switch to manual procedures, which are slower and more labor-intensive. As a result, flights have been delayed and cancelled, leaving thousands of passengers stranded.
Brussels Airport has been particularly hard hit, with authorities requesting airlines to cancel 50% of flights scheduled between 4:00 am and 12:00 pm UTC on Saturday. The airport reported at least 10 flight cancellations and 17 delays of over an hour. Heathrow Airport, the busiest in Europe, has also been affected, with passengers advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
The cyberattack highlights the vulnerability of aviation infrastructure to cyber threats. According to a report by French aerospace company Thales, the aviation sector saw a 600% increase in cyberattacks from 2024 to 2025. Collins Aerospace, the company behind the MUSE software, has confirmed the cyber-related disruption and is working to restore full functionality as quickly as possible.
Passengers traveling from affected airports are advised to arrive with ample time to spare, expect longer check-in times, and stay updated by checking their airline’s website or contacting customer service for the latest information. Airport authorities are doing their best to mitigate the impact, but the disruptions are expected to continue until the issue is fully resolved.
