Brussels Airlines has issued a warning to passengers regarding potential disruptions at Brussels Airport due to a large-scale nationwide strike scheduled for Monday, 31 March.
The airline is offering alternative options for affected travelers as unions prepare for widespread industrial action.
The strike, organized by the socialist trade union FGTB/ABVV and the Christian union CSC/ACV, is aimed at protesting several measures introduced by the Belgian Federal Government.
It is expected to have a significant impact on public transportation, with Belgium’s largest rail unions already confirming their participation.
Now, with Brussels Airlines acknowledging that air travel may also face disruptions, the impact of the strike is expected to extend beyond ground transport.
Airport Operations at Risk
Brussels Airlines has expressed concerns that the strike will likely affect key handling companies operating at Brussels Airport, which could lead to delays or cancellations.
“This demonstration will most likely have an impact on the handling companies at Brussels Airport,” the airline said in a statement.
“We are currently assessing the impact these social actions will have on our flight schedule. We have not cancelled any flights at this time, and we ask for your patience.”
Although no flights have been officially canceled as of yet, the airline is offering flexible options for passengers who may be affected by the strike-related disruptions.
Rebooking and Refund Options
To accommodate travelers, Brussels Airlines has announced that passengers with flights scheduled between 28 March and 9 April 2025 can rebook their tickets free of charge. Rebooking is available through the airline’s virtual assistant, Charlie.
“If Charlie is unable to rebook you, you can always enter ‘live chat’ to be connected to a real agent,” the company noted.
Additionally, passengers who choose not to travel due to the potential disruptions can cancel their flights and request a refund.
The airline has directed customers to its website, where they can select the ‘voluntary cancellation’ option to process their refund.
Wider Impact of the Strike
The nationwide strike is expected to cause severe disruptions across various sectors, with transport services likely to bear the brunt of the impact. Belgian rail operators have already confirmed their participation, raising concerns over travel difficulties across the country.
Previous nationwide strikes in Belgium have led to widespread cancellations and delays in train, tram, and bus services, and airports have faced significant operational challenges due to the absence of ground-handling staff.
As the strike date approaches, Brussels Airlines has advised passengers to stay informed about potential changes to their travel plans and to check for real-time updates on its official channels.
With unions determined to push forward with the industrial action, travelers planning to pass through Brussels Airport on 31 March are advised to prepare for possible disruptions and to consider alternative travel arrangements if necessary.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
