Due to the announced strike of a large number of the security personnel of G4S on June 20, Brussels Airport foresees heavy disruption on its operations. The airport is advising departing passengers with a flight on that day to rebook to another date. Several airlines are currently canceling or rescheduling a significant number of flights to avoid hours of waiting time at the security screening.
We want to send out a really clear signal to both the management and to the government
Jo Vanrutten, ABVV representative at G4S
Security staff working for G4S at Zaventem airport announced the action in protest against the high pressure of work they endure at the airport, among other issues. G4S is responsible for security checks at the airport, including baggage scanning.
Unions representing Brussels Airlines’ pilots announced a strike too, with the most probable date for their strike being at the start of the summer holiday period later this month. According to Jo Vanrutten, ABVV representative at G4S, already 80% of the staff have confirmed their participation in the strike.
There may be a minimum service, but in any case there will not be a smooth flow through the security checkpoints
Jo Vanrutten, ABVV representative at G4S
Due to staff shortages and increased travel demand, Brussels Airlines has also announced the cancellation of 148 flights over the summer. Ryanair pilots could also file a strike notice for the summer, while employees of Aviapartner, the company that provides ground handling services, conducted a strike in early June.
The disruptions at Brussels Airport are just one example among many. Across Europe, major airports have faced delays and cancellations due to a shortage of baggage handlers, security guards, and ground operators. Several airlines are expected to continue cutting their planned schedules in order to deal with a combination of challenging factors: reduced fleet, higher fuel costs, and shortage of staff.
Passengers who still decide to depart from Brussels Airport on June 20 are advised to travel with hand luggage only.
