Belgium is set for a total air travel shutdown on Monday, as a 24-hour national strike forces Brussels and Charleroi airports to cancel nearly all flights. The strike, led by unions protesting controversial government reforms, will also cause major disruptions to the country’s rail services.
Brussels Airport, Belgium’s primary international hub, announced it would cancel all departing flights due to a shortage of security personnel and ground crews. “With staff absenteeism expected, we’ve made the difficult decision to ground all outbound flights,” said an airport spokesperson. The airport also warned that incoming flights may be affected by last-minute cancellations.
At Charleroi Airport, Belgium’s second-largest airport, officials confirmed a full operational shutdown. “Without enough staff to ensure passenger safety, we have no choice but to cancel all scheduled flights,” the airport stated. Airlines are contacting affected passengers to make alternative arrangements.
This marks the second major aviation disruption in two months, following a similar strike in February that left thousands of travelers stranded. The labor unrest is a response to proposed changes to employment laws and worker benefits.
The strike’s effects also extend to Belgium’s rail services, with a separate week-long walkout by transport workers already causing delays and crowded trains.
Travel experts are advising passengers with Monday bookings to check their flight status and consider alternative transportation options. Airport officials urge travelers to avoid arriving at terminals unless they have confirmed their flight is operating.
The disruptions come during the busy spring travel season, potentially impacting both business and leisure travelers. Industry analysts predict that the economic effects could spill over into Tuesday as airlines work to clear the backlog of stranded passengers.
