Flights Canceled in Belgium Due to General Strike

Brussels Airport is canceling all passenger departures on Thursday, February 13, due to the announced general strike in Belgium. This decision was made after consultations with airlines and with consideration for the safety of passengers and staff. Airport authorities are urging travelers not to come to the airport on that day. Airlines will contact passengers whose flights have been canceled.

Disruptions will also affect arrivals in Brussels, with some flights possibly being canceled. Passengers should monitor announcements from airlines and check the airport's official website for the latest updates on their flights.

Belgian airline Brussels Airlines initially planned to limit operations, but following the airport authorities' decision to suspend all departures, the carrier had no choice but to comply. The airline’s spokesperson, Nico Cardone, emphasized that as a result, not only will planes be unable to depart from Brussels, but they also won’t be able to return to Zaventem Airport.

The nearby Charleroi Airport will also face disruptions. Its authorities have announced that all departures on Thursday will be canceled. Only arrivals from the Schengen area will be permitted, while flights from outside this zone will not be allowed to land. This decision is due to expected staff shortages caused by the strike.

The general strike, organized by Belgian trade unions, is a protest against planned pension and labor reforms announced by the newly sworn-in federal government. In addition to air transport, disruptions will also affect rail and public transportation services.