Commercial Aviation
Brussels Airport Cancels Flights Amid Belgium Labor Strike 2025
Brussels Airport cancels all departures on October 14 due to nationwide strike protesting government pension and labor reforms in Belgium.
The announcement by Brussels Airport to cancel all departing flights on October 14, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in Belgium’s ongoing labor dispute. This action, organized by major Belgian trade unions, is a direct response to the government’s sweeping austerity measures and reform agenda. The strike is not an isolated event but the latest in a series of national actions that have affected critical infrastructure and disrupted daily life across the country.
Brussels Airport, as Belgium’s primary Airlines hub, plays a crucial role in the national economy, contributing billions of euros and supporting tens of thousands of jobs. The decision to halt all outgoing flights is emblematic of the broader tensions between the government’s fiscal policies and labor organizations’ resistance. As the sixth major strike to impact the airport in 2025 alone, it underscores the depth of the conflict and the significant economic stakes involved for both the public and private sectors.
The ongoing unrest is rooted in Belgium’s complex political landscape, fiscal pressures, and a reform program that has polarized public opinion. The outcomes of these strikes and negotiations will likely shape the country’s economic and social trajectory for years to come.
The current cycle of labor unrest can be traced back to the formation of Belgium’s “Arizona coalition” government in February 2025. After months of negotiation following the national elections, Prime Minister Bart De Wever succeeded in assembling a five-party coalition under the threat of new elections from King Philippe. The coalition brought together parties from across the political spectrum, including the New Flemish Alliance (N-VA), Reformist Movement (MR), Les Engagés, Christian Democratic and Flemish Party (CD&V), and the centre-left Vooruit party.
This government faced immediate pressure to address a growing fiscal crisis. Belgium’s federal budget deficit was projected at €26.2 billion for 2025, or 4.1% of GDP, with forecasts suggesting a further increase to €40.1 billion (5.4% of GDP) by 2030. Public sector debt, already high, was expected to surpass 122% of GDP by the end of the decade.
In response, the De Wever administration introduced the “Summer Agreement,” a comprehensive reform package targeting labor law, pensions, and social security. The most contentious reforms included a “bonus-malus” pension system, penalizing early retirement and rewarding those who work longer, and a cap on periods of non-work that count toward pension calculations. Unemployment benefits were also restructured, introducing a two-year cap starting in January 2025. These changes, affecting potentially tens of thousands of Belgians, sparked widespread opposition from unions and civil society organizations.
“The biggest socio-economic reform this country has seen this century.”, Prime Minister Bart De Wever, July 2025
Belgium’s trade unions, including the liberal CGSLB and the larger CSC and FGTB federations, have mounted a coordinated response. They argue that the reforms disproportionately impact vulnerable populations, such as older workers, women with family responsibilities, and part-time employees. Legal challenges have been filed, and unions have organized a series of national strikes, demonstrations, and sectoral actions targeting key infrastructure.
The unions’ strategy has focused on maximizing economic and political pressure while maintaining public support. By targeting sectors like aviation, where even small-scale participation can cause widespread disruption, unions have demonstrated their capacity to influence national policy debates. Security staff strikes at Brussels Airport, for example, have repeatedly forced the cancellation of all departures, despite most airport employees not participating directly. Union leaders have called for ongoing dialogue, but skepticism remains about the government’s willingness to compromise. The government, for its part, has engaged in sporadic consultations with union representatives but insists that fiscal realities necessitate reform.
Labor actions have escalated steadily throughout 2025. The year began with a demonstration of 30,000 people in Brussels during coalition negotiations, primarily opposing the proposed pension reforms. This was followed by a larger protest of 60,000 in February, shortly after the government was formed, which included clashes with police and widespread disruption to public services, transportation, and the justice system.
Monthly strikes and demonstrations have become a feature of Belgian public life, with unions announcing continued actions through the autumn. The aviation sector, particularly Brussels Airport, has been a focal point, with over 180,000 passengers affected by disruptions as of the summer. Major strikes have been timed to coincide with peak travel periods, such as the summer holidays, amplifying their economic impact.
Other sectors, including railways, postal services, education, and the judiciary, have also participated in coordinated actions. Regional variations in strike participation reflect Belgium’s political and economic diversity, with higher rates in Wallonia compared to Flanders and Brussels in certain sectors.
“At airports, even a small number of strikers can disrupt operations and force a complete shutdown, severely impacting passengers and airlines.”, Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO Brussels Airlines
The aviation sector has absorbed significant financial losses due to the strikes. Brussels Airlines reported €8 million in losses in the first half of 2025 alone, despite none of its employees striking. The repeated disruptions have also damaged the airline’s reputation and raised concerns about long-term competitive disadvantage, as passengers and airlines consider shifting operations to more stable neighboring hubs.
Brussels Airport’s economic footprint is substantial. According to a 2019 study, the airport supports over 64,000 jobs and contributes €5.4 billion to Belgium’s GDP annually. Its catalytic effects extend to trade, investment, and tourism, with an estimated €8.83 billion in broader economic value. The impact of strikes thus reverberates across multiple sectors, from logistics to hospitality and retail.
Cargo-Aircraft operations and passenger traffic have shown resilience, with modest year-on-year growth in 2025 despite disruptions. However, the risk of long-term damage remains if labor unrest continues, especially as international competitors vie for market share in both cargo and passenger segments.
Belgium’s union landscape is shaped by its political and linguistic divisions, with multiple organizations representing different sectors. The ACV-CSC, the country’s largest trade union, emphasizes solidarity and provides a range of services to its members, from unemployment assistance to legal support. This structure enables coordinated national action while addressing specific sectoral concerns. The current reform program has united diverse union constituencies in opposition. The ABVV-FGTB has described the reforms as a threat to social security and purchasing power, framing the strikes as a defense of Belgium’s social model. Public services such as healthcare, education, and the judiciary have joined actions, highlighting the breadth of opposition and raising concerns about the provision of essential services.
Regional differences in strike impact are notable. For example, postal sector participation was 25% in Wallonia, but only 3% in Flanders. Such variations reflect local economic conditions and political affiliations, with industrial decline and austerity measures fueling higher participation in certain areas.
“Justice is despised because it is left to fend for itself and is under-resourced.”, Statement by legal professionals during June 2025 protests
Belgium’s position as a European hub for business, logistics, and tourism is at risk due to repeated labor disruptions. International businesses and investors value operational reliability, and persistent strikes can influence decisions about location and expansion. The aviation sector, in particular, faces competition from neighboring countries with more predictable labor environments.
Tourism and business travel have also been affected, with strikes during peak seasons damaging Belgium’s reputation as a reliable destination. The timing of actions to coincide with holidays and major events maximizes their disruptive effect on the economy.
Foreign direct Investments may be impacted if labor unrest persists, despite Belgium’s many structural advantages. The government must balance the need for fiscal reform with the imperative to maintain a stable, attractive environment for business and tourism.
The resolution of Belgium’s labor crisis will likely require compromise from both the government and trade unions. Potential solutions include modifying the most contentious reforms, such as adjusting the pension bonus-malus system or providing exemptions for vulnerable groups affected by unemployment benefit caps. The government’s recent commitment to more regular dialogue with social partners is a positive step, but trust remains low after months of confrontation.
Economic pressures are mounting, with strike-related losses estimated at €100 million for the aviation sector alone in 2025. The broader impact on business confidence, investment, and international competitiveness adds urgency to finding a resolution. The European Union’s fiscal oversight mechanisms may also come into play if Belgium’s budget deficit continues to widen, influencing both the pace and content of reforms.
The October 14 strike at Brussels Airport is emblematic of Belgium’s broader labor crisis, a conflict rooted in deep disagreements over economic reform, social protection, and the country’s future direction. The decision to cancel all outgoing flights illustrates the strategic leverage unions hold over critical infrastructure and the significant economic costs at stake. As Belgium grapples with fiscal pressures, political fragmentation, and international competition, the path forward will require creative compromise and sustained dialogue. The outcome of this labor dispute will shape not only the country’s economic prospects but also its social fabric and international standing for years to come.
Why is Brussels Airport cancelling all outgoing flights on October 14, 2025? What are the main issues behind the strike? How significant is Brussels Airport to the Belgian economy? What has been the economic impact of the strikes so far? Are there prospects for resolution? Sources:
Brussels Airport Strike: Economic Disruption Amid Belgium’s Labor Crisis
Political Context and the Arizona Coalition’s Reform Agenda
Union Responses and Legal Actions
Pattern of Escalating Labor Actions in 2025
Economic Impact on Aviation and Beyond
Labor Relations, Regional Variations, and Public Services
International Competitiveness and Investment Climate
Future Prospects and Resolution Scenarios
Conclusion
FAQ
The Airports is cancelling all departures due to a national strike organized by Belgian unions in protest against government austerity and pension reforms.
The strike is primarily a response to government reforms affecting pensions, unemployment benefits, and labor market Regulations, which unions argue will harm vulnerable groups and erode social protections.
Brussels Airport contributes €5.4 billion annually to the national economy and supports over 64,000 jobs, making it a critical hub for trade, investment, and tourism.
The aviation sector alone has reported losses of approximately €100 million in 2025, with broader effects on business confidence, investment, and international competitiveness.
Resolution will likely require compromise and ongoing dialogue between the government and unions, with possible modifications to the most controversial reforms.
Reuters
Photo Credit: LOT
Route Development
Heathrow Ends 100ml Liquid Limit with £1 Billion Security Upgrade
Heathrow Airport completes £1 billion upgrade with CT scanners, allowing liquids up to 2L and laptops in bags for departures.
Heathrow Airport has officially announced the completion of a massive security upgrade across all four of its terminals, marking the end of the restrictive 100ml liquid limit for departing passengers. According to an official press release issued on January 23, 2026, the airport has finalized a £1 billion investment to install next-generation Computed Tomography (CT) scanners, positioning itself as the largest airport in the world to fully deploy this technology across its entire operation.
The upgrade fundamentally changes the pre-flight experience for millions of travelers. Under the new regulations, passengers departing from Heathrow can now carry liquids in containers of up to 2 liters in their hand luggage. Additionally, large electronic devices such as laptops and tablets no longer need to be removed from bags during screening. The airport states that this move will not only streamline the security process but also significantly reduce single-use plastic waste.
The core of this upgrade involves the installation of advanced CT scanners, similar to technology used in medical environments. These machines generate detailed 3D images of cabin baggage, allowing security officers to rotate and analyze the contents on-screen without requiring passengers to physically separate items.
In its announcement, Heathrow confirmed that the requirement to place liquids in clear plastic bags has been eliminated. This operational shift is expected to have a substantial environmental impact. The airport estimates that removing the plastic bag mandate will save approximately 16 million single-use plastic bags annually.
Data released by the airport suggests the new technology is already delivering performance improvements. Heathrow reported that in 2025, it was named “Europe’s most punctual hub airport.” During that period, more than 97% of passengers waited less than five minutes for security screening. Furthermore, the airport noted that its baggage load rate improved to over 98% in 2025, indicating a reduction in missed bags.
Thomas Woldbye, CEO of Heathrow, highlighted the significance of the milestone in a statement included in the press release:
“Every Heathrow passenger can now leave their liquids and laptops in their bags at security as we become the largest airport in the world to roll out the latest security scanning technology. That means less time preparing for security and more time enjoying their journey, and millions fewer single-use plastic bags. This billion pound investment means our customers can be confident they will continue to have a great experience at Heathrow.”
While the completion of this project is a major achievement for UK aviation infrastructure, it comes after significant industry-wide delays. The UK government originally set a deadline of June 2024 for major airports to install this technology. Like Gatwick, Manchester, and Stansted, Heathrow faced logistical hurdles, including supply chain issues and the need to reinforce floors to support the heavy scanners, that pushed the completion date to January 2026.
Travelers must remain vigilant regarding the limitations of this new rule. The ability to carry liquids up to 2 liters applies only to passengers departing from Heathrow. Many international destinations, as well as other airports within the UK and EU, may not have completed their upgrades. Passengers transferring through other hubs or returning to Heathrow from airports without CT scanners will still be subject to the traditional 100ml liquid limit. Consequently, purchasing large liquids duty-free or packing full-sized toiletries in carry-on luggage could result in confiscation at the return airport or a connecting security checkpoint. We recommend checking the specific security regulations of all airports on your itinerary before packing.
Do I still need to put liquids in a plastic bag at Heathrow? What is the new liquid limit? Do I need to take my laptop out of my bag? Does this apply to my return flight?
Heathrow Scraps 100ml Liquid Limit Following £1 Billion Security Overhaul
Next-Generation Security Technology
Operational Efficiency Gains
AirPro News Analysis: Context and Traveler Advisory
The “One-Way” Rule Caveat
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The requirement to use clear plastic bags for liquids has been eliminated for departures from Heathrow.
Passengers can now carry liquids in containers of up to 2 liters in their hand luggage.
No. Laptops, tablets, and other large electronics can remain inside your cabin baggage during the screening process.
Not necessarily. These rules apply to departures from Heathrow. You must check the rules of the airport you are flying back from, as many still enforce the 100ml limit.
Sources
Photo Credit: Heathrow Airport
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
AirAsia Nears Deal to Acquire 100 Airbus A220 Jets
AirAsia is close to finalizing a deal to buy around 100 Airbus A220 jets, marking a strategic fleet expansion for the Southeast Asian carrier.
This article summarizes reporting by Reuters and Tim Hepher.
AirAsia is reportedly in advanced negotiations to acquire approximately 100 Airbus A220 aircraft, a move that would signify a major strategic pivot for the Southeast Asian budget carrier. According to exclusive reporting by Reuters, the airline is “closing in” on the agreement, which would mark its first entry into the dedicated regional jet market.
Industry sources indicate that the deal could be finalized soon, with the upcoming Singapore Airshow, scheduled for February 3–8, 2026, viewed as a probable venue for an official announcement. If completed, this acquisition would diversify AirAsia’s fleet, which has been dominated by larger narrowbody aircraft for over a decade.
The reported agreement involves a firm order for around 100 jets. While specific variants have not been confirmed by the airline, industry analysis suggests the carrier is targeting the A220-300, the larger variant of the family, which is favored by low-cost carriers for its higher seating capacity and unit cost efficiency.
Based on 2025 list prices, a deal for 100 A220-300 jets would be valued at approximately $9.15 billion. However, large-scale orders of this magnitude typically attract significant discounts from manufacturers, meaning the actual transaction value would likely be substantially lower.
“Airbus is closing in on a deal to sell around 100 A220 jets to AirAsia…”
, Reporting by Tim Hepher, Reuters
This potential order comes as AirAsia completes a significant corporate restructuring. In January 2026, AirAsia X completed its acquisition of Capital A’s aviation assets, consolidating short-haul and long-haul operations under a unified “AirAsia Group” umbrella. This streamlined structure appears to be facilitating a more cohesive, group-wide fleet strategy.
For years, AirAsia has operated a standardized fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. The introduction of the A220 would represent a departure from the single-type fleet model often strictly adhered to by low-cost carriers (LCCs). However, the move aligns with a post-pandemic industry trend toward “right-sizing” capacity. The A220-300, typically seating between 130 and 160 passengers, sits below the capacity of the A320neo (180+ seats). This allows the airline to:
The Shift from Volume to Precision
We view this potential order as a signal that AirAsia is moving from a “survival mode” strategy to one of “smart growth.” Historically, LCCs in Southeast Asia have chased volume on trunk routes using the largest possible narrowbodies (like the A321). By opting for the A220, AirAsia acknowledges that the next phase of growth lies in connecting secondary and tertiary markets that cannot support 180-seat aircraft.
Furthermore, this is a significant win for the Airbus A220 program in a region where it has faced stiff competition. Reports indicate that AirAsia also evaluated the Embraer E195-E2. Selecting the A220 reinforces Airbus’s dominance in the carrier’s fleet, despite the A220 having a different cockpit and supply chain than the A320 family.
AirAsia launched in 1996 with Boeing 737-300s before transitioning to an all-Airbus fleet to standardize maintenance and training. Introducing a second fleet type adds complexity, but the operational savings of the A220 on specific routes appear to outweigh the costs of diversification.
According to market reports, the deal is not yet signed, and negotiations regarding pricing and delivery slots are ongoing. However, the timing aligns with the industry’s recovery trajectory, where airlines are locking in delivery slots for the late 2020s to secure future capacity.
Report: AirAsia Nears Deal for 100 Airbus A220 Jets
Details of the Potential Acquisition
Strategic Rationale: Right-Sizing the Network
AirPro News Analysis
Fleet Evolution and Competitor Context
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: AirAsia
Airlines Strategy
JetBlue Launches Public Vote for Dominican Republic Aircraft Livery
JetBlue starts public voting for a Dominican Republic-themed aircraft livery by local artists, debuting in Spring 2026 on an A320.
This article is based on an official press release from JetBlue.
JetBlue has announced the launch of a new cultural campaign, “RD: Orgullo que Eleva” (DR: Pride That Elevates), aimed at celebrating the airline’s long-standing relationship with the Dominican Republic. As the largest carrier currently serving the market between the United States and the Dominican Republic, the airlines is introducing a public voting initiative to select a custom aircraft livery designed by Dominican artists.
According to the company’s announcement, this marks the first time JetBlue will dedicate a specific aircraft livery to the Dominican Republic. The winning design will be painted on an Airbus A320, which is scheduled to enter service in Spring 2026. The initiative highlights the carrier’s strategy to deepen ties with the Dominican community, a market it has served for nearly 22 years.
The core of the “RD: Orgullo que Eleva” campaign is community engagement. JetBlue has commissioned three distinct Dominican artists and collectives to propose designs that reflect the country’s folklore, nature, and spirit. The airline has opened a public voting platform where community members can select their preferred design.
Voting is currently open and will run through February 1, 2026. The airline directs participants to cast their votes at VotaJetBlueRD.com. Following the conclusion of the voting period, the winning concept will be announced in February, with the aircraft expected to debut later in the spring.
“As the largest airline serving the Dominican Republic, we’re proud to introduce JetBlue’s first livery dedicated to the country, which will showcase the work of a local artist and be chosen by the community. This initiative honors the country’s vibrant culture and creative talent, while reflecting the strong bond we’ve built there for more than twenty years.”
JetBlue selected three artists to interpret Dominican culture through their unique visual styles. The public will choose between the following concepts:
An art director and muralist with over two decades of experience, Willy Gómez is known for merging Neo-traditional and Art Nouveau styles. His proposed design focuses on the theme of “Nature & Rhythm,” utilizing bold colors to depict the island’s coastal beauty and musical heritage.
This design collective brings a contemporary social lens to their work. Their concept, centered on “Everyday Life & Folklore,” features playful illustrations that highlight Dominican gastronomy, family life, and traditional folklore. An internationally recognized illustrator, Lena Tokens combines surrealism with natural elements. Her design theme, “Tradition & Identity,” incorporates the colors of the Dominican flag and features figures representing the nation’s creativity and rhythm.
The launch of this campaign underscores the strategic importance of the Dominican Republic to JetBlue’s network. Data provided in the announcement indicates that JetBlue expects to average more than 30 daily departures from the Dominican Republic by Spring 2026.
The airline currently operates service to four major airports in the country:
Recent network adjustments include the relaunch of service between Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and Santiago (STI), as well as new routes connecting Tampa (TPA) to Punta Cana (PUJ). Beyond flight operations, the airline highlighted its philanthropic footprint through the JetBlue Foundation, which supports local educational initiatives like the Mariposa DR Foundation and the DREAM Project.
While special liveries are a common marketing tool in aviation, JetBlue itself has previously released liveries for the Boston Celtics, the New York Jets, and the FDNY, dedicating an aircraft to a specific international destination is a distinct move. It signals a defensive strategy to solidify brand loyalty in a high-volume “Visiting Friends and Relatives” (VFR) market.
By involving the community in the design process, JetBlue is likely aiming to differentiate itself from competitors by positioning the brand not just as a transit provider, but as a cultural partner. This is particularly relevant as the airline continues to manage capacity and optimize its route network in the Caribbean region.
When does voting close? Which aircraft will feature the new design? When will the aircraft start flying? Who are the artists involved?
JetBlue Launches Public Vote for First-Ever Dominican Republic Livery
Campaign Details and Voting Process
The Contending Artists
Willy Gómez: Nature and Rhythm
Los Plebeyos: Everyday Life and Folklore
Lena Tokens: Tradition and Identity
Market Position and Operational Context
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Voting for the new livery closes on February 1, 2026.
The winning design will be painted on a JetBlue Airbus A320.
The aircraft is scheduled to debut in Spring 2026.
The three contending artists are Willy Gómez, the collective Los Plebeyos, and Lena Tokens.
Sources
Photo Credit: JetBlue
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