Over 100,000 residents living near Brussels Airport are experiencing severe sleep disturbances due to aircraft operations, according to the latest annual noise contour report. The calculation is based on World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and recent demographic data, highlighting the scale of the problem.
In 2024, around 101,753 people were classified as “severely sleep-deprived,” spread across some forty municipalities surrounding the airport. The surge in complaints has intensified public debate over the airport’s noise management policies.
The federal airport mediation service reported a sharp increase in complaints last year, with 37,188 lodged by 3,909 individuals. This represents a significant rise from 28,893 complaints in 2023.
Factors behind the increase include heightened scrutiny of Brussels Airport Company’s environmental permit renewal, ongoing runway maintenance, adverse weather, and the continued use of older, noisier aircraft at night.
Residents have particularly criticized night-time operations of cargo aircraft such as the Boeing 777, which is prohibited from flying at night. Many voiced frustration over what they describe as a lack of transparency and communication from the airport operator regarding flight schedules and deviations.
Since 1999, aircraft overflights around Brussels have been regulated by a Brussels-Capital Region decree aimed at combating air traffic noise. The decree establishes permissible noise levels in three zones: Zone 0 (55 dB(A) day / 45 dB(A) night), Zone 1 (60 dB(A) / 50 dB(A)), and Zone 2 (65 dB(A) / 55 dB(A)).
Noise levels are monitored through nine regional stations operated by Bruxelles Environnement. Monthly cross-checks between sound meter data and aircraft movements ensure compliance, with official reports issued against airlines in cases of violations.
The municipality of Schaerbeek, covering 5% of the Brussels region, has been particularly affected. With 129,775 residents in 2025, it is one of the most densely populated areas near the airport. Mayor Audrey Henry (MR) condemned low-altitude landings over the municipality during ongoing runway construction, calling the situation “totally unacceptable.”
Construction affecting ground taxiways has rendered runway 07 left unusable. During periods of adverse wind, aircraft are rerouted along older, noisier flight paths, often dipping below 2,000 feet. Henry called for essential dialogue whenever major works are undertaken to avoid disturbing residents.
Mediator Philippe Touwaide confirmed that the closures forced planes to follow approach procedures dating back to the 1950s, bringing them over Brussels at low altitudes without precise alignment.
He criticized Brussels Airport Company for failing to provide clarifications, warning that the absence of dialogue fuels protests and controversy.
Touwaide urged Brussels Airport CEO Arnaud Feist to apologise, describing the current situation as a management failure that has unnecessarily aggravated tensions with affected communities.
Residents, authorities, and mediators alike continue to call for improved communication and stricter adherence to noise regulations to ensure the wellbeing of those living near Brussels Airport.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
