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Hawaiian Airlines, which is now part of Alaska Air Group, is actively collaborating with authorities and cybersecurity experts to investigate and resolve the issue.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety office has been in contact with Hawaiian Airlines regarding the incident. (Photo: Shutterstock)
Hawaiian Airlines, a commercial carrier in the US, has reported a cyberattack that targeted some of its IT systems. However, the airline has assured it customers that its flight operations would continue as scheduled.
“Hawaiian Airlines is addressing a cybersecurity event that has affected some of our IT systems,” the airline said in a statement issued on Thursday morning. “Our highest priority is the safety and security of our guests and employees. We have taken steps to safeguard our operations, and our flights are operating safely and as scheduled.”
In response to the cybersecurity incident, Hawaiian Airlines has contacted the respective authorities and cybersecurity experts to assist in the investigation and remediation efforts, and it is working towards restoring its systems. A follow-up statement from the airline later in the day reiterated its ongoing efforts to manage the situation.
“Hawaiian Airlines is continuing to address a cybersecurity event that has affected some of our IT systems,” said the firm. “We continue to safely operate our full flight schedule, and guest travel is not impacted.”
The specific nature of the cyberattack was not disclosed. Such incidents often involve ransomware, where attackers demand a ransom in exchange for restoring access to affected systems. However, no group has claimed responsibility for this particular attack on Hawaiian Airlines.
FAA monitoring Hawaiian Airlines’ cybersecurity response
Hawaiian Airlines, which was acquired by Alaska Air Group last year, is the largest and longest-serving airline in Hawaii. As per July 2024 data, the airline operates daily flights within the Hawaiian Islands and offers nonstop service to 16 US gateway cities.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the civil aviation regulator in the US, told Reuters that its safety office is in contact with Hawaiian Airlines regarding the incident. “There has been no impact on safety, and the airline continues to operate safely. We are monitoring the situation,” it said in a statement to the news agency.
The aviation sector, known for its interconnected and technologically advanced infrastructure, remains a target for cybercriminals. Airlines rely on complex networks and systems that store large amounts of sensitive data, making them vulnerable to cyber threats.
Earlier this month, Canadian airline WestJet experienced a cyberattack that disrupted its internal systems, affecting customer access to its mobile app and website. In December 2024, Japan Airlines faced system malfunctions due to a cyberattack, leading to delays and halted ticket sales, although no data leak occurred.
Read more: Grocery wholesaler UNFI hit by cyberattack, operations affected
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