Belgium was paralyzed by a national strike on Monday, as air traffic and railway workers protested against proposed pension reforms. Around 40% of flights to and from Brussels Airport, the largest in Belgium, were canceled after baggage handlers, security staff, and other personnel downed tools.
Brussels Airlines announced on Saturday that it had been forced to cancel half of its European flights in advance, while ensuring long-haul routes remained operational. Charleroi Airport, a major hub for the low-cost airline Ryanair, warned of significant delays and potential cancellations.
Rail services also suffered, with two-thirds of trains connecting major cities failing to operate. Train services within Brussels were also halted.
The nationwide strike was called by Belgium’s three main trade unions to protest pension reforms, which could be approved by the incoming government. Belgian political parties are still negotiating to form a new federal administration following the elections in June.
The five parties involved in coalition talks are planning to raise the retirement age for railway workers and others who are currently eligible for early retirement, according to the CSC union. Unions have also planned a demonstration in Brussels later in the day.
