Brussels Airport faced major disruption on Tuesday evening as authorities were forced to implement a complete shutdown of all air traffic following the sighting of an unauthorised drone in the vicinity.
The dramatic closure, which began around 7:30 PM local time, grounded all departing and arriving flights, creating chaos for hundreds of passengers and raising serious security concerns.
Complete Airspace Lockdown
Airport officials confirmed that all flight operations were suspended indefinitely until the situation could be resolved. The decision came after multiple reports of drone activity near critical airport infrastructure, posing what authorities described as "an unacceptable risk to aviation safety."
Passengers already aboard aircraft were forced to disembark and return to terminal buildings, while those awaiting departures faced indefinite delays and cancellations.
Security Protocols Activated
Belgian aviation authorities immediately activated emergency security protocols, with airport security teams and local police launching an intensive search for the rogue drone operator.
"The safety of our passengers and crew is our absolute priority," an airport spokesperson stated. "We cannot take any risks when it comes to potential drone interference with aircraft operations."
Growing Concern Over Drone Threats
This incident highlights the increasing challenge airports face from unauthorised drone activity. The aviation industry has been grappling with how to effectively detect and neutralise drone threats without causing massive disruption to air travel.
Previous incidents at major airports, including London Gatwick's 2018 shutdown that affected 140,000 passengers, have demonstrated the severe consequences of drone incursions near airport airspace.
As investigations continue, passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest flight information and expect significant delays even after the airport reopens.
