by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 10:20 AM ET, Tue April 29, 2025
Belgium has come to a standstill for the fourth time this year.
Brussels Airport has cancelled all departures and half of its arrivals today (April 29), while Charleroi Airport has grounded all flights as Belgian trade unions organize large-scale walkouts.
Reports indicate that the strike is a response to the federal government's proposed austerity measures, which include pension reforms and budget cuts.
Air Travel Severely Impacted
Brussels Airport cancelled all departing passenger flights due to anticipated shortages of security staff and handling service providers.
"Brussels Airport has just received information from the external security provider G4S that, contrary to previous communication, they cannot guarantee any staffing for the security check on Tuesday," the airport told Belga. "This means that no departing flights can take place."
Charleroi Airport, Belgium's second-largest airport, has also cancelled all flights for the day.
Major airlines—including Air Canada, Delta, United, British Airways, Qatar Airways, Ryanair, TAP Air Portugal, and SAS—have been significantly affected, with over 300 flights cancelled at Brussels Airport and around 120 at Charleroi.
Travellers are advised to check their flight status and contact their airline for rebooking options.
Public Services and Transportation Disrupted
The strike is impacting various modes of transportation across the country. Rail services are operating at reduced capacity, with only about one out of every three trains running. Additionally, public hospitals are providing only minimal services.
Protests Against Government Reforms
The strike is in protest of proposed government reform. In 2025, the statutory retirement age was raised from 65 to 66 and is anticipated to rise to 67 by 2030.
Sources indicate that the government also plans to raise the retirement age for military personnel from 56 to 67.
Additionally, starting January 1, 2026, unemployment benefits would be capped at two years, with exceptions for individuals participating in specific training programs.
Reports from EuroNews state that 60,000 people demonstrated against the new Belgian government's policies in Brussels.
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