By San José, Costa Rica — A significant cyberattack targeting Collins Aerospace, a key technology provider for numerous airlines, has caused widespread disruption across European airports, including major hubs like London Heathrow, Berlin, and Brussels. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, September 20, 2025, impacted check-in and boarding systems, forcing airports to resort to manual procedures, leading to substantial flight delays and cancellations.
Brussels Airport was the first to confirm the incident, stating that the attack directly compromised its technology provider’s systems. Shortly thereafter, both Berlin and London airports reported similar disruptions.
For a legal perspective on the implications of this cyberattack, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an experienced attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
This cyberattack highlights the increasing vulnerability of businesses and individuals in the digital age. The legal ramifications can be extensive, ranging from data breach notifications and regulatory investigations to potential civil lawsuits for damages. Companies must proactively implement robust cybersecurity measures and incident response plans to mitigate these risks and protect their stakeholders. It’s not just about technology; it’s about legal compliance and fulfilling a duty of care.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on proactive cybersecurity measures and a comprehensive approach to risk management resonates deeply. In today’s interconnected world, cybersecurity is not merely a technical issue but a fundamental business imperative with significant legal and ethical implications. Protecting data and systems is no longer optional, but a crucial part of fulfilling a duty of care to customers, employees, and shareholders. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable perspective on this critical issue.
Complicated airport operations and flight cancellations are expected on Saturday, September 20th and Sunday, September 21st. Check your flight status before coming to the airport.
Brussels Airport, Belgium
Collins Aerospace, which provides boarding and check-in solutions to airlines globally, acknowledged the issue and confirmed that they are working to restore services.
The incident has highlighted vulnerabilities in the aviation industry’s reliance on third-party technology providers. The disruption underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity measures, not only for individual companies but also throughout their entire supply chain.
This situation highlights the importance of all companies being aware of the security status of the third parties they hire, because if this third party is affected and has vital or critical operations for your organization, then it will cause a disruption to the company. This is basically known as a supply chain security attack.
Luis Gorgona, IT Consulting Partner at RSM Costa Rica
The reliance on manual processing has significantly slowed down passenger check-in and baggage handling, resulting in long queues and frustrated travelers. Airports are urging passengers to contact their airlines directly to confirm their flight status before heading to the terminal.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the increasing threat of cyberattacks and the potential for widespread disruption to critical infrastructure. The attack on Collins Aerospace demonstrates how interconnected global systems are and how a single point of failure can have cascading effects across international borders. The long-term implications of this attack on the aviation industry and its supply chain security practices are yet to be fully understood.
As airlines and airports grapple with the immediate aftermath, the focus now shifts to investigating the source of the attack, strengthening security measures, and mitigating future risks. This incident is likely to spur renewed calls for greater investment in cybersecurity across the aviation sector and increased scrutiny of third-party vendor security protocols.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Collins Aerospace
About Collins Aerospace:
Collins Aerospace, a subsidiary of Raytheon Technologies, is a major provider of aerospace and defense products and services. They offer a wide range of solutions, including avionics, aerostructures, interiors, mechanical systems, mission systems, and power & controls for commercial, regional, business, and military aircraft, as well as for helicopters and space applications.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Brussels Airport
About Brussels Airport:
Brussels Airport is an international airport located in Zaventem, serving the Brussels metropolitan area and central Belgium. It is one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe, handling millions of passengers annually. The airport is a major hub for several airlines and offers a wide range of destinations worldwide.
For further information, visit rsmcr.com
About RSM Costa Rica:
RSM Costa Rica is a member firm of RSM International, a global network of independent audit, tax, and consulting firms. They provide a range of professional services to businesses across various industries, including IT consulting, helping organizations improve their technology infrastructure and cybersecurity practices.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to societal progress. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, paired with its dedication to empowering individuals and communities through accessible legal knowledge, distinguishes it within the Costa Rican landscape. By fostering understanding and transparency within the legal realm, Bufete de Costa Rica continues to champion a more informed and empowered society.
