Around 140 flights at Brussels Airport are set to be cancelled on Friday as national protests take place across the country. Ground handler Alyzia's staff are expected to join the action, with services between London, Manchester, and Brussels among those affected.
Official Statement and Affected Airlines
Brussels Airport issued a statement on its website, saying: "On Friday 9 October there is a national manifestation. Part of the staff from ground handler Alyzia is expected to take part in this action. Based on the current information approximately half of the flights handled by Alyzia is expected to operate as planned. Unfortunately, a number of flights will have to be cancelled. We regret the inconvenience caused by this union action."
Brussels Airlines, ITA Airways, Air Arabia, and United Airlines are among the carriers affected, according to the Express. Brussels Airlines services hit include flights to Heathrow at 4.55pm, to Manchester at 10am and 9.30pm, from Manchester at 8.30am and 1.30pm, and from Heathrow at 8pm.
Routes Affected and Unaffected Carriers
Routes to and from Paris, Budapest, Madrid, and Chicago are also disrupted. British Airways passengers travelling to and from Brussels on Friday remain unaffected, along with services to and from Edinburgh. Budget carriers Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air are also unaffected, as their ground handling is managed by a separate provider.
Brussels Airlines confirmed its staff are not participating in the industrial action, stating: "We regret that this is already the third time this year that our flight schedule has been seriously disrupted by industrial action taken by external parties." The airline added: "This action is disrupting the travel plans of thousands of passengers and is having a significant financial impact on Brussels Airlines."
Passenger Rights and Further Action
When strikes cause cancellations, they are classified as "extraordinary circumstances" beyond the airline's control, meaning passengers cannot claim compensation. However, airlines must offer rebooking or refunds at no cost, and supply meals, refreshments, and overnight accommodation where necessary.
Airlines partnering with Alyzia will contact passengers directly about flight status and alternatives. Alyzia handles baggage processing, ramp services, de-icing, aircraft cleaning, and cargo operations, supporting about 20 airlines at Brussels Airport.
Further strike action is anticipated on Monday across Belgium's public sector, though air traffic will remain unaffected. Public transport services are likely to face disruption, potentially causing delays for travellers heading to or from Brussels Airport.
