Nationwide strike on 31 March disrupts Belgium’s transport with flight cancellations and public transport delays

Today, a nationwide general strike has brought Belgium to a standstill, with the most significant disruptions at Brussels Airport (BRU). The 24-hour strike by airport workers, baggage handlers, and security staff has caused the cancellation of more than three hundred flights. The strike, led by major trade unions such as the FGTB/ABVV and CSC/ACV, is in protest against the new Federal Government’s proposed budget cuts, pension reforms, and labour market changes. These unions are protesting what they view as austerity measures that disproportionately affect the working class, pensioners, and vulnerable communities.

Details on the strike that will affect Brussels Airport 

BRU, the country’s largest and busiest international hub, announced the cancellation of all 244 scheduled departures on 31 March due to the strike. The walkout will include ground crew, security personnel, and other essential airport staff, making it impossible for the airport to guarantee safe and effective operations. As a result, all flights departing from Zaventem will be cancelled, and arrivals are also expected to be severely disrupted. Passengers scheduled to travel from Brussels are being urged not to come to the airport on Monday. Those affected by the cancellations are advised to check the status of their flights directly with their airline or through the Brussels Airport website or app for updates, as cancellations will only be posted once registered by airlines.

In addition to the widespread flight cancellations, Brussels Airlines, the national carrier, confirmed that almost all of its 200 scheduled flights would be cancelled for the day. Only a handful of inbound flights from destinations such as Germany, Italy, and Spain will operate, although the airline still advises passengers to check for updates. Similarly, TUI fly is exploring options to reroute some of its flights, potentially departing from alternative airports in Belgium or surrounding countries, in an attempt to mitigate the impact of the strike.

The strike is part of a broader wave of industrial action across Belgium, sparked by concerns over the government’s economic policies. Unions argue that the proposed budget cuts unfairly target those already struggling financially, particularly pensioners, while letting the wealthiest off lightly. The unions have called for solidarity, with employees across various sectors, including education, public services, and transport, joining the action. Teachers’ unions are also taking part, with picket lines expected to block access to business parks throughout the country..

As the strike will be a major inconvenience for both residents and visitors, it is recommended that anyone planning to travel to or from Belgium on 31 March monitor the situation closely and make alternative travel arrangements where possible.

BRU stated that:

“Due to a national strike on March 31 and the announced strike of a large number of the security staff and the personnel of the handlers, we expect major disruptions… We have decided, in consultation with the airlines, not to operate any departing passenger flight on March 31.”

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