National Strike Grounds Flights: Over 100 Cancellations by Major Airlines at Brussels and Charleroi
A nationwide strike in Belgium has led major airlines including KLM, Ryanair, Air Canada, and Wizz Air to cancel 149 flights and delay 32 more at Brussels and Charleroi airports. Thousands of passengers have been left stranded and isolated as disruption continues.
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A significant national strike in Belgium has triggered severe disruption across the country's major airports. Airlines such as KLM, Ryanair, Air Canada, and Wizz Air were forced to cancel a combined total of 149 flights, with a further 32 flights facing delays. The affected airports include Brussels Airport and Charleroi Airport, both experiencing major operational setbacks due to the industrial action.
The disruption has directly affected thousands of air passengers, who were left stranded or isolated as a result of the strike. The strike's impact stretched across multiple carriers, causing widespread delays and cancellations and creating considerable uncertainty for travelers scheduled to depart or arrive at these Belgian airports.
The strike action is linked to broader labor disputes within the country and has affected the flight schedules of both international and regional airlines. No specific start or end date for the strike has been reported in the news article, but the extensive disruption underscores the vulnerability of air travel to such labor actions.
Passengers affected are advised to consult their airlines for alternative arrangements or refunds. The event stands as a clear example of how labor strikes can have a major cascading impact on air travel, affecting not just the airlines and airports involved but thousands of people relying on scheduled flights.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights:
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.
Up to €600 compensation
Passengers whose flights were canceled or delayed over 3 hours may be entitled to financial compensation ranging from €250 to €600 per person. Check your flight.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight.
Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to times you must present yourself for check-in and boarding.
Quick facts
Disruption:
Delays and Cancellations
Cause:
Other strike
Compensation:
Could be eligible for €250 - €600 compensation
Flights affected:
149
Status:
Past disruption
Airlines affected:
KLM, Ryanair, Air Canada, Wizz Air
Airports affected:
Brussels Airport, Charleroi Airport
Checked by:
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated:
15 October 2025