On Monday, during the national day of action of the Belgian trade unions, Brussels Airport cancels all departing passenger flights. “We cannot guarantee the safety of passengers and staff,” said a spokesman.
Decisive for the cancellation was the less than expected staffing for the security investigation. As a result, waiting times threatened to extend by more than eight hours.
Earlier on Sunday evening, Brussels Airport reported about 300 canceled flights, of which 157 were on departure. In total this was about 70% of all scheduled flights. Now Brussels Airport says it has canceled all outbound passenger flights.
Passenger flights can still land on Monday. Inbound and outbound cargo flights remain possible.
Belgian airlines are now busy looking for a solution. A spokesperson said Brussels Airlines, the largest player at Brussels Airport, had canceled more than half of its flights, but has now extended this to all flights. Eight transit flights that do not require a security check can continue. Alternative solutions are being sought for passengers on canceled flights.
Airline TUI Fly Belgium diverts the majority of its flights to the regional airports of Ostend, Antwerp and Liège. In response to Monday’s cancellations, the airline will allow two more flights to depart from Ostend. TUI Fly also operates two flights on Tuesday.
Source: NU
John Cameron is a journalist at The Nation View specializing in world news and current events, particularly in international politics and diplomacy. With expertise in international relations, he covers a range of topics including conflicts, politics and economic trends.