Seattle–Tacoma Airport hit by a possible cyber attack, causing major outage

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has been hit by a possible cyber attack, causing widespread disruptions to its internet, phone, and email systems. The outage has now entered its third day, with Port of Seattle officials working around the clock to investigate the issue and restore full service.

According to Lance Lyttle, the airport’s aviation managing director, the airport is working closely with outside experts and federal partners, including the Transportation Security Administration and Customs and Border Protection, to address the issue. While the full scope of the outage has not been disclosed, Lyttle has assured that the TSA’s ability to screen passengers has not been affected.

However, the outage has had a significant impact on the airport’s operations, with some airlines reporting service interruptions. Delta and Alaska Airlines, which both use Sea-Tac as a hub, have reported no service interruptions, but the outage has affected the Port of Seattle’s baggage sorting system, prompting airlines to warn passengers to avoid checking bags if possible to avoid potential delays.

The airport has advised travelers to allow extra time at the airport and to use airline mobile applications to get boarding passes and bag tags when possible. However, many travelers have still faced long security lines and waits at baggage claims and checking. Additionally, terminal screens were out throughout the airport, making it difficult for some passengers to determine their assigned gate.

In a statement on Facebook, the airport said, “Port teams continue to make progress on returning systems to normal operations, but there is not an estimated time for return.”

The incident has raised concerns about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber attacks. Airports are a vital part of a country’s transportation system, and any disruption to their operations can have significant consequences for travelers and the economy.

Experts have warned that cyber attacks on airports could become more common in the future, as they are an attractive target for hackers. In 2017, a ransomware attack hit several major airports in Europe, including London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

In response to the growing threat of cyber attacks, airports have been working to strengthen their cybersecurity measures. This includes implementing robust security protocols, conducting regular security audits, and training employees to be vigilant about potential threats.

The incident at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport serves as a reminder of the importance of cybersecurity in protecting critical infrastructure. As airports continue to rely on technology to operate efficiently, they must also ensure that their systems are secure and able to withstand potential attacks.

In conclusion, the possible cyber attack on Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has caused significant disruptions to its operations, affecting both travelers and airlines. While the full extent of the attack is still unknown, it highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect critical infrastructure from potential threats.