Brussels Airport is bracing for widespread disruption on Tuesday, 29 April, as a nationwide strike leads to the cancellation of at least 30% of departing flights. The industrial action, organised by Belgian trade unions ACV/CSC and ABVV/FGTB, is in protest against government policies, particularly concerning pension reforms and austerity measures.
In a statement, Brussels Airport confirmed that it had requested airlines to cut operations in anticipation of major service interruptions, particularly in security and baggage handling. “Significant disruption is expected throughout the day,” the airport warned, advising passengers to check their flight status closely and prepare for possible delays or last-minute changes.
The airport noted that while arriving flights are largely expected to proceed as planned, the evolving situation could lead to further adjustments. A spokesperson added that the 30% figure could rise depending on how the strike develops over the next 24 hours.
Brussels Airlines, the airport’s home carrier, is significantly affected. The airline is reviewing its flight schedule and expects to cancel approximately 70 flights. Affected customers are being informed by email, with options to rebook or claim a refund easily through a dedicated online portal.
“This process takes several hours, as we aim to offer travellers alternative solutions immediately — such as rebooking on a different flight or routing via another airport,” said Brussels Airlines spokesperson Nico Cardone.
Travellers are being advised to plan their journeys carefully. With disruptions to public transport services highly likely, passengers should arrive at least two hours before departure for Schengen destinations and three hours for non-Schengen flights. Train and bus services are also expected to be heavily impacted by the industrial action, compounding the travel difficulties across Belgium.
The strike is part of a broader day of national action organised by trade unions to oppose the policies of the federal De Wever government. Demonstrations and industrial actions are expected across the country, affecting not just aviation but also public sector services, schools, and transport networks.
Brussels Airport hit repeatedly by strikes in 2025
This is not the first time in 2025 that Brussels Airport has been severely disrupted by industrial action. On 31 March, a national strike paralysed the airport, leading to the cancellation of all departing flights. The strike, involving baggage handlers, security personnel, and ground staff, left the terminal virtually empty, with public transport similarly impacted.
Earlier this year, on 12 and 13 February, another major strike led to a complete halt in air traffic at Brussels Airport for 24 hours. Skeyes, Belgium’s air navigation service provider, had to suspend all operations from 10:00 pm on 12 February to 10:00 pm on 13 February. Ground handling and security services also joined the action, causing widespread cancellations. Public transport networks including De Lijn, TEC, and STIB were disrupted, adding further chaos for travellers.
These repeated strikes underline the persistent tensions between Belgian workers’ unions and the federal government over a raft of proposed reforms touching pensions, working conditions, and wage regulations.
Brussels Airport has urged all travellers to remain updated via official communication channels and airline websites. “We are doing our utmost to minimise the inconvenience for our passengers, but given the national scope of the strike, disruption will be unavoidable,” the airport added.
Despite efforts to maintain operations, the impact is likely to be felt across the region, with knock-on effects potentially extending into neighbouring airports as re-routed passengers seek alternative travel options.
The action on 29 April serves as a stark reminder of how deeply political disputes can ripple through essential infrastructure, affecting thousands of people. Both government officials and union leaders have thus far held firm on their respective positions, making it unclear whether any resolution is imminent.
Passengers scheduled to travel on 29 April are strongly advised to monitor updates closely, prepare for longer waiting times, and consider contingency plans where possible.
