All flights departing Brussels airport are cancelled on Thursday as staff strike over unpaid labour and pension reforms.

No passenger flights will depart Belgium’s busiest airport due to the national demonstration and 24 hours of industrial action on 12 March.

Brussels airport said it “unfortunately expects major disruptions to airport operations on that day”.

An average of 500 flights take off and land daily at the airport.

The airport said that flight cancellations were made in consultation with airlines to ensure the safety of passengers and staff and to prevent lengthy queue times.

Strike action involves some of the country's largest trade unions, including FGTB/ABVV, CSC/ACV, and CGSLB/ACLVB, as well as a “large number” of staff from security service providers and ground handling companies.

Travellers have been told not to arrive at Brussels airport on Thursday, with airlines contacting passengers about cancellations.

Brussels Airlines said: “Belgian unions plan a manifestation on Thursday, March 12. The unions of Brussels Airlines will not participate, but the manifestation is expected to have an impact on handling companies at Brussels airport.”

Passengers travelling with the airline can rebook for free on flight dates between 11 and 19 March.

Brussels Charleroi airport added that the “lack of staff available to ensure safe operations” has forced the airport to cancel scheduled departures and arrivals.

It said: “Passengers scheduled to fly via Charleroi on March 12 will be contacted in the coming days and no later than Tuesday, 10 March, by their airline for a rebooking or refund.

“We regret the impact of this national strike on our passengers' travel plans and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

Some disruption to public transport is also expected from Sunday, 8 March.

Although arrival flights may still be operated, “cancellations are also possible”, said the Belgian aviation hub.

A spokesperson for Brussels airport said: “The airport advises all passengers scheduled to arrive at Brussels Airport on 12 March to check the status of their flight with their airline. The flight overview on our website will only display cancellations once they have been entered by the airline.

“Brussels airport deeply regrets the impact of this national trade union action on its passengers.”

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