Brussels Airport has been hit harder than anticipated by the national strike on Tuesday 29 April. While early forecasts suggested that around 30% of departing flights would be affected, the airport has since confirmed that all flights have been cancelled.
In total, 470 scheduled departures have been scrapped, affecting around 66,000 passengers. The decision followed the widespread industrial action by members of ACV/CSC and ABVV/FGTB, two of Belgium’s largest trade union federations. The strike targets Prime Minister De Wever’s federal government’s policies on pension reforms, austerity measures, and the rising cost of living.
The main disruption at Brussels Airport stems from the participation of security and ground handling staff, whose absence has made it impossible to maintain safe airport operations. In consultation with airlines, the airport has decided to suspend all outbound flights for the day.
Update 4 #unionaction April 29 ⚠️ Departing flights will unfortunately be cancelled due to participation from security & handling staff to the action. We ask passengers not to come to the airport today. We apologise for the inconvenience. ➡️ More info: https://t.co/0FcxF5KJVA pic.twitter.com/TaUm7uB6ED
— Brussels Airport (@BrusselsAirport) April 29, 2025
This announcement was echoed on the airport’s website, where officials stressed the scale of the disruption and informed passengers that ‘airlines will contact passengers directly to inform them of their options’.
The impact on arriving flights remains uncertain, but fewer problems are expected as no security screening is required upon arrival. This, however, could still change, and further adjustments might be needed.
Airlines are offering rebooking, rerouting, or refunds, and emergency teams are working to assist stranded passengers. Brussels airport has apologised for the inconvenience and stressed that the safety-driven decision was not taken lightly.
NOW🇧🇪: In cities and towns across Belgium, workers are protesting the Arizona government’s cuts to pensions and social security.
— UNI Europa (@UNI_Europa) April 29, 2025
We are out today on the streets of Brussels in solidarity with tens of thousands.
When we fight, we win. pic.twitter.com/TQOPkE7DPS
Travellers looking for alternative routes should know that the 29 April strike is part of a broader national protest affecting schools, civil services, and public transport across Belgium. They are therefore encouraged to consult the providers of NMBS/SNCB and De Lijn for the latest updates on rail, tram, and bus services.
