Brussels Airport Cancels All Departing Flights Amid Nationwide Strike on March 31

Brussels Airport will suspend all departing passenger flights on Monday, March 31, as Belgium braces for a large-scale nationwide strike.

The strike, spearheaded by the socialist trade union FGTB/ABVV and the Christian union CSC/ACV, aims to protest against a series of measures introduced by the Federal Government.

The strike has already garnered significant support from Belgium’s largest rail unions. Now, Brussels Airlines has confirmed that it will cancel all outgoing flights on the day of the protest.

Severe Disruptions Expected

Brussels Airport issued a statement warning of significant disruptions. “Due to a national strike and the announced walkout of a large number of security staff and handling personnel, we expect major disruptions to airport operations on that day,” the statement read.

“To ensure the safety of passengers and staff, we have decided, in consultation with the airlines, not to operate any departing passenger flights.”

A total of 244 flights departing from the airport will be affected by the decision. Airlines are reaching out to impacted passengers to provide alternative arrangements and are urging travelers not to come to the airport on the day of the strike.

Arriving Flights Also Affected

While the primary focus remains on departing flights, Brussels Airport has warned that incoming flights may also face cancellations and delays.

“As departing passenger flights are cancelled, cancellations are also possible on arriving flights,” the airport stated. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines or monitor the airport’s website and app for real-time updates.

The flight overview on the airport’s website will reflect cancellations only after airlines officially register them.

The airport acknowledged the inconvenience caused to travelers but emphasized that safety concerns and operational disruptions left them with no alternative. “We regret any inconvenience caused by this union action,” the statement concluded.

Brussels Airlines Assists Passengers

Brussels Airlines has already taken measures to minimize disruptions for its customers. Last week, the airline allowed passengers to rebook their flights free of charge or request a refund.

According to the airline, over 60% of affected passengers have already taken advantage of these options. “We regret that these actions are causing inconvenience to our passengers, but we will continue to do everything we can to assist them as best we can and find solutions,” a spokesperson for Brussels Airlines stated.

Past Strikes Show Widespread Impact

The impact of the upcoming general strike is expected to be substantial, mirroring previous nationwide protests earlier this year. On January 13, nearly 40% of flights at Brussels Airport were canceled due to industrial action.

A subsequent strike on February 13 saw an even greater disruption, with the airport shutting down entirely as air traffic controllers at Skeyes joined the protest, bringing all flight operations to a standstill.

As Belgium prepares for another day of widespread labor action, travelers are urged to stay informed about the latest developments and make alternative arrangements where necessary.

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members