A nationwide three-day strike in Belgium has begun, with disruptions expected to escalate across Brussels’ two major airports, affecting air travel throughout the country.
The strike is not limited to aviation, with Belgium’s transport network and public services also facing major disruptions from a protest against austerity measures introduced by the Belgium government.
The government plans to reduce spending by €10 billion by 2030 to comply with EU debt regulations. Trade unions and the public have strongly opposed these measures, leading to a nationwide strike.
The industrial action, organized by several Belgian trade unions, started on November 24, 2025. The most significant disruptions are anticipated on November 26, 2025, as more private-sector companies will participate in the walkout. The national strike is expected to heavily affect air transport.
Flight cancellations expected at Brussels and Charleroi airports
Brussels Airport (BRU), the main international airport in the country, announced in a statement that it will not have any departing flights on November 26, 2025. The airport also mentioned that some arriving flights might be canceled as well.
“We anticipate busy days at Brussels Airport on Tuesday, November 25 and Thursday, November 27,” the airport said. “Be sure to come to the airport on time. We recommend you to check our online tool or our app to know at what time to arrive at the airport for your flight. We regret the inconvenience caused by this action.”
In a separate statement on its website, Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) reported that from November 24 to 26, 2025, getting to the airport “may be difficult”. The airport confirmed that it will not have scheduled departures or arrivals on November 26, 2025.
“Passengers scheduled to fly via Charleroi on November 26 will be contacted in the coming days by their airline for a rebooking or refund,” the airport said. “We regret the impact of this national strike on our passengers’ travel plans and apologize for any inconvenience caused.”
