RTX (RTX.N) subsidiary Collins Aerospace is working to bring its airline passenger management software back online following a cyber “intrusion” that disrupted services, the company announced on Wednesday.
The incident occurred on September 19, targeting the MUSE system, a critical platform used at several European airports to manage check-in, baggage handling, and boarding processes.
The ransomware attack forced key systems offline, creating significant delays for travelers. Authorities in the United Kingdom confirmed on Wednesday that a suspect had been taken into custody as part of their probe into the matter.
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Impact on European Airports
Among the hardest hit locations was Berlin airport, which reported ongoing challenges in restoring its passenger and baggage systems. Airport officials cautioned that travelers should anticipate additional delays and possible flight cancellations as recovery work continued.
The MUSE platform, developed by Charlotte, North Carolina-based Collins Aerospace, plays a crucial role in streamlining passenger processing for airlines.
With its temporary shutdown, airports were left scrambling to manage check-ins and luggage manually, leading to crowded terminals and frustrated travelers.
This disruption adds to the growing number of cyber incidents that have had tangible, offline impacts across Europe.
The attack against Collins Aerospace highlights the vulnerability of aviation infrastructure to digital threats, underscoring the critical need for strong cybersecurity safeguards in the transport sector.
Broader Cybersecurity Concerns
While the company has not disclosed how long full restoration of the MUSE system may take, officials emphasized that efforts are underway to bring services back to normal.
Collins Aerospace confirmed that it is collaborating with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts to investigate the breach and strengthen protections moving forward.
For passengers, the attack has meant longer wait times, missed connections, and confusion at affected airports.
Travel experts warn that such incidents may become more frequent as criminal groups increasingly target essential infrastructure.
The arrest announced by British police represents a step forward in the investigation, though it remains unclear whether additional individuals or groups may have been involved.
The case continues to draw attention to the broader risks facing the aviation industry at a time when reliance on digital systems has never been greater.
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