Ground handling strike grounds 140 flights at Brussels Airport

Ground operations at Brussels-Zaventem Airport face significant disruptions on Friday, October 9, 2026, due to an industrial action staged by employees of ground handling provider Alyzia. The walkout follows a nationwide union call by the FGTB and CSC against federal government policies, affecting regional public transit as well.

According to airport operating authorities, the industrial dispute will force the cancellation of approximately 140 arrivals and departures. This volume represents nearly half of all flights handled by Alyzia on that date. Around 20 air carriers are impacted by the shortage of ground personnel. Notably, base operator Brussels Airlines must cancel close to 40 percent of its scheduled flying program for the day.

Conversely, flights serviced by the hub's second ground handler, Aviapartner, are expected to operate largely without disruption, as its staff is not participating in the labor action. The airport management has requested ticketed travelers to monitor flight statuses remotely and avoid traveling to the terminal without confirmed rebookings, while airlines are facilitating reassignments and fare refunds.