Police have arrested a man in his forties over an alleged cyber attack that disrupted operations at Heathrow Airport and other major European hubs. The suspect was detained in West Sussex on Tuesday following an investigation by the UK National Crime Agency (NCA).
The man was held on suspicion of offences under the Computer Misuse Act before being released on conditional bail. The arrest represents the first major development in the investigation into the cyber incident that affected multiple international airports.
Investigation continues
Paul Foster, deputy director and head of the NCA's National Cyber Crime Unit, said the case remains in its early stages. "Although this arrest is a positive step, the investigation into this incident is in its early stages and remains ongoing," Foster said.
He emphasised the broader threat posed by cybercrime to British infrastructure. "Cybercrime is a persistent global threat that continues to cause significant disruption to the UK," Foster added.
Airport systems affected
The alleged cyber attack targeted Collins Aerospace systems, causing significant disruption to check-in and boarding processes. Passengers at London Heathrow, Brussels and Berlin airports experienced delays as airlines struggled with compromised digital systems.
Foster confirmed the NCA's commitment to tackling such threats. "Alongside our partners here and overseas, the NCA is committed to reducing that threat in order to protect the British public," he said.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
