Belgium General Strike Grounds Hundreds of Flights at Brussels International Airport

A nationwide general strike of public and private sector workers in Belgium is causing major travel disruptions at some of Europe’s busiest airports.

The strike, called Tuesday by a coalition of Belgian trade unions, is in response to proposed government reforms that could impact pensions and working conditions.

In addition to widespread public transportation issues, the strike is severely affecting air travel—most notably at Brussels Airport (BRU), which canceled all departures for the day. Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), the city’s secondary hub, also halted all departures. Arrivals are expected to be affected as well.

Brussels Airport urged all departing passengers to stay away on Tuesday and advised inbound passengers to check with their airlines before heading to the airport.

“To ensure the safety of passengers and staff, we have decided, in consultation with the airlines, not to operate any departing flights on 29 April,” the airport said in a statement. “The airlines will contact passengers directly to inform them of their options.”

In total, more than 300 flights have been canceled at Brussels Airport and around 120 at Charleroi, according to the airports.

Brussels Airlines, one of the two carriers most impacted on Tuesday along with Ryanair, is telling passengers, “We will contact you as soon as possible via email,” as cancellations continue. The airline is also allowing travelers to request a full refund on its website or through their travel advisor.

“We sincerely regret the inconveniences caused by this manifestation and we thank you for your understanding,” the airline said.