A widespread strike in Belgium has caused significant disruption to travel, affecting tens of thousands of passengers.
Major airports in Belgium, including Brussels Airport and Brussels Charleroi Airport, have reported numerous flight cancellations and delays on Tuesday, October 14.
Brussels Airport, the largest airport in the country, has canceled all departing flights and approximately half of the incoming flights. Similarly, Brussels Charleroi Airport, a significant hub for budget airlines, such as Ryanair, has announced the cancellation of all flights, both incoming and outgoing, for the day.
The strike was organized by Belgian trade unions to protest government austerity measures, impacting not only air travel but also disrupting metro, bus, and tram services across the nation.
According to a spokesperson from Brussels Airport, a significant number of scheduled flights have been canceled due to the strike. The airport management has warned of extensive disruptions and high passenger traffic on both Monday and Wednesday as travelers try to adjust their plans.
Passengers affected by the strike, estimated at 48,000 individuals, with 33,000 set to depart and 15,000 to arrive, will be contacted by their airlines for rebooking or refunds, as reported by The Brussels Times.
Union representatives anticipate a significant turnout at the demonstration in Brussels, aiming to convey a strong message against the austerity measures. “We want to send a strong signal,” stated ACLVB spokesperson Kurt Van Hissenhoven.
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