Due to a large-scale strike organized by Belgian trade unions on April 29, the country’s two major airports — Brussels and Charleroi — have announced flight cancellations, according to The Brussels Times.
Brussels Airport stated that at least 30% of all flights will be canceled on the day of the strike. Meanwhile, Charleroi Airport announced the cancellation of all flights for that date.
The decision comes in response to a nationwide protest against the policies of Belgium’s federal government. Some airport staff are expected to join the strike, affecting the ability to maintain adequate service and safety levels.
Charleroi Airport clarified that all flights are being canceled due to a shortage of staff necessary to ensure full security.
Passengers affected by the cancellations will be offered ticket rebooking or a refund. The protests are aimed at the policies of Belgium’s new government, led by Bart De Wever, particularly a pension reform that unions argue is disadvantageous to low-income earners. De Wever’s cabinet officially took office on February 3 — nearly eight months after the country’s parliamentary elections.
