Strike at Brussels Airport, what now?
❌ Strikes over the years
A national strike on March 31, 2025 caused a significant drop in passengers. There were no departing passenger flights and only about a third of arriving flights were able to take place.
Earlier this year, on Feb. 13, there was already a national union action that resulted in no arriving and departing flights being possible that day.
There was also a security personnel strike in October 2024 that caused problems.
In short: every year there are (unfortunately) several strikes at Brussels Airport.
These can include airport personnel (such as baggage handlers, security guards), airline personnel (pilots, cabin crew) and air traffic controllers (Skeyes).
📋 Preparation
Strikes can wreak havoc on your travel plans, but with proper preparation, you can significantly reduce stress and avoid potential problems.
Prior to your trip
- Follow the news: Keep an eye on Belgian news websites, airport and airline social media. Strikes are often announced days or even weeks in advance.
- Check your flight status: Use your airline's website or app to check the status of your flight. Flights are often cancelled early.
- Airport website: Brussels Airport has a dedicated section on its website for flight information and important notifications. Please consult this page regularly.
- Hand luggage: If possible, travel with hand luggage only. If the ground staff is on strike, it may take a long time for your luggage to reach you.
- Contact information: Make a note of your airline's customer service phone number, should you not have internet access.
Alternative plans
- Rebook early: If your flight is canceled, don't wait. Call your airline's customer service immediately or go to the counter at the airport to arrange an alternate flight. The sooner you act, the more options will be available.
At the airport itself
- Be patient: Airport and airline staff are under a lot of pressure. A friendly and patient attitude will probably help you faster than getting angry.
- Ask about options: Ask the front desk staff what alternatives are available, such as a flight through another airline or a hotel stay.
💸 Compensation
It is important to note that passengers are often not entitled to compensation in the event of an airport strike that is not directly related to their airline (such as a national strike).
When the airline's own personnel strike, however, they are often entitled to compensation.
🛏️ Stay overnight during a strike at Brussels Airport
Is your flight from Brussels Airport long delayed or completely canceled due to a strike? Then quickly book a room at Imperia Short Stay. Our furnished apartments are equipped with every comfort. They are only 5 minutes from the terminal, so you can quickly get to the departure hall after the strike.
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