BRUSSELS - February 14, 2025, marks a stark day for air travel as all commercial flights across Belgium come to a sudden and complete halt due to a nationwide strike initiated by air traffic controllers. The strike, which started at 6:45 a.m. and is set to last until 10:15 p.m., has significantly impacted operations at major airports including Brussels, Charleroi, Liège, Antwerp, and Ostend.
The protest stems from widespread dissatisfaction with the Belgian government's planned reforms, particularly with their controversial pension reform proposals. Unions argue these changes threaten the welfare of lower-income workers and the stability of public services, prompting this immediate industrial action.
Prior to this major strike action, Monday had already seen cancellations at Brussels and Charleroi airports due to protests by baggage and security staff. With the support of the ACV Transcom union, today’s strike action has cascaded effects, grounding flights not just from air traffic controllers, but also impacting public sector workers voicing their grievances against cuts to social services and working conditions.
While rescue and medical flights are exempt, the disruption has left countless travelers reeling. Many airlines have urged passengers to reach out to them early to ascertain the status of their flights. "We regret the inconvenience caused by this union action," stated Brussels Airport’s spokesperson.
Protestors took to the streets of Brussels, numbering around 60,000 according to police estimates, as discontent was palpable throughout the city. They waved banners and chanted against the government reforms laid out following the recent establishment of Prime Minister Bart De Wever's coalition government. The proposed reforms, they argue, could seriously endanger job security and diminish the quality of state services.
The protests brought parts of Brussels to a standstill, with road traffic severely impacted and public transport services disrupted. Police reported clashes outside the AR district party headquarters, resulting in authorities deploying tear gas and water cannons to manage the crowds. Protesters were seen setting off fireworks, reflecting the intensity of the situation.
While Brussels Airport saw 430 flights canceled, other modes of transport, such as Eurostar trains and regional rail services, remained largely unaffected, albeit with increased pressure as people began to seek alternative travel means.
Union leaders have made it clear: without significant government concessions, they are prepared to escalate their actions, warning of yet another nationwide general strike on March 31 if their demands continue to fall on deaf ears. The opposition to pension reform, which imposes stricter conditions for early retirement and cuts to public services, remains at the heart of the protests.
Flemish nationalist Bart De Wever’s administration, newly formed from negotiations among five parties, is feeling the heat from this unrest. Changes proposed reward those who work past their retirement age with additional benefits, but disadvantage those without the requisite 35 years of service, raising alarms among middle and lower-income earners.
During the protests, many demonstrators displayed messages underscoring the need for stronger public services, echoing sentiments echoed by trade unions such as FGTB, CSC, and CGSLB. The unions are adamant about fighting the government's austerity measures and restoring dignity to labor conditions.
“Tens of thousands of Belgians took to the streets on Thursday…” said representatives from Reuters, highlighting how the protest was part of broader national dissent over economic and social issues. Importantly, the strike action has created ripples across Europe, causing logistical complications for other connected flights and travel sectors.
Local media outlets also emphasized how the reform proposals place psychological and financial pressure on many families already struggling to make ends meet. The repercussions of the pension reforms, if enacted, are seen as just one more blow to the working class, potentially eroding confidence in the current government.
While public transport was significantly disrupted, De Lijn reported only 51 percent of buses and trams operational. Major urban centers like Antwerp and Ghent saw bus routes significantly reduced, illustrating the depth of the protests’ impact. Postal services also felt the brunt of the walkout, particularly across Wallonia, where strikes have been maintained longer.
With anticipation of busy days to follow, Brussels Airport urged travelers to be proactive and check on their flight statuses. Travelers returning to their regular routines may find themselves stuck as employees plan to strike every 13th of the month until their concerns are adequately addressed.
Overall, the situation presents precarious uncertainties for the Belgian government moving forward. The extremes of public sentiment against proposed reforms indicate possible turbulent times for both policymakers and the populace as they navigate these impending social and economic crossroads.