Strikes in Belgium Threaten to Cancel All Departures from Brussels Airport

Belgium is preparing for a nationwide strike on Thursday, March 12, 2026, feared to cause a complete halt of departures from Brussels Airport, marking the biggest disruption to air traffic in the country in years.

Several major labor unions, including FGTB/ABVV, CSC/ACV, and CGSLB/ACLVB, announced a 24-hour protest against government policies related to wage and pension reforms, expected to involve employees in public transport, government services, and airport staff.

According to airport officials, all departing flights that day are likely to be canceled due to the participation of security personnel, baggage handlers, and air traffic controllers in the strike, meaning thousands of travelers may find themselves unable to travel as planned.

Anyone with a scheduled flight from Brussels Airport on March 12 is advised to reschedule their booking as soon as possible or contact their airline or travel agent for alternative options before flights in the surrounding days fill up.

Some airlines, such as Air Canada, have already started offering flexible rebooking policies without additional fees for passengers affected by the March 12 strike.

Although some incoming flights may operate, travelers are urged to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport to avoid wasted time and futile trips.

Labor strikes in Belgium are not new to the transport sector; previous years have seen protest waves causing major cancellations and delays in flights and public transport services, heightening travelers’ concerns about Brussels Airport operations on this day.

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