Commercial Aviation
Brussels Airport Cancels All Departures on November 26 Amid Strike
Brussels Airport halts all departing flights on Nov 26 due to nationwide strike impacting staff and transport services, causing major disruption.
Brussels Airport Halts All Departures Amid Nationwide Strike Action
We are reporting on a significant disruption to European air travel scheduled for Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Brussels Airport has officially announced the cancellation of 100% of departing passenger flights for this date. This decision comes as a direct response to a nationwide general strike in Belgium, which includes the participation of essential airport security and ground handling staff. The airport authority has deemed it impossible to guarantee the safety of passengers or manage the potential for overcrowding, leading to this preemptive measure.
The disruption is not an isolated incident but rather the culmination of a broader wave of industrial action sweeping across Belgium. The strike on November 26 represents the peak of a three-day mobilization organized by the country’s major trade unions. While earlier days in the week focused on rail transport and public services, this specific date targets the private sector, effectively paralyzing operations at one of Europe’s key aviation hubs. We understand that the primary goal of the airport’s decision is to avoid chaotic scenes at terminals where security screening capacity would be negligible.
Travelers planning to fly out of Brussels on this date are being explicitly advised not to travel to the airport. The operational halt is absolute for departures, and while the airport remains technically open for arriving flights, the practical reality suggests severe limitations there as well. This event underscores the fragility of transport networks when faced with coordinated labor disputes involving critical infrastructure personnel.
Operational Impact on Airlines and Cargo
The scope of these cancellations affects every major carrier operating out of Brussels. As the home carrier, Brussels Airlines is facing the most substantial impact, having already initiated preemptive cancellations earlier in the week to manage passenger displacement. However, the ripple effect extends to international carriers including Ryanair, TUI fly Belgium, Lufthansa, and Air Canada. We note that while arriving flights are technically permitted to land, the likelihood of cancellations remains high. Airlines are reluctant to fly aircraft into a hub where they cannot depart, potentially leaving planes and crews stranded.
Beyond passenger travel, the strike poses a threat to logistics and supply chains. Brussels Airport serves as a critical European cargo hub, particularly for the pharmaceutical industry. While the public announcements have focused heavily on passenger inconvenience, we observe that cargo flights are also expected to face significant disruptions. This could lead to delays in the shipment of time-sensitive goods, creating knock-on effects for businesses across the continent that rely on Brussels as a logistics gateway.
Public transport connecting to the airport is also severely compromised. The strike action involves the national railway operator (SNCB) and local transit authorities (STIB/MIVB and De Lijn). Consequently, even if passengers were to ignore advice and attempt to reach the airport, they would face unreliable or non-existent train and bus services. This comprehensive shutdown of the transport ecosystem reinforces the necessity of the airport’s decision to close departures entirely.
“Departures: All cancelled to ensure passenger and staff safety and avoid chaotic queues. Passengers are advised not to come to the airport unless they have a confirmed arriving flight.”
Context of the Conflict and Economic Implications
To understand the severity of this shutdown, we must look at the underlying causes of the industrial action. The strike is driven by a coalition of Belgium’s major trade unions,FGTB, CSC, and CGSLB,protesting against federal government austerity measures. These proposed measures include budget cuts, reforms to social security, and potential alterations to the wage indexation system. The latter is a mechanism that automatically adjusts wages in line with inflation, a point of contention that frequently triggers labor disputes in the region.
The economic toll of this three-day strike is projected to be substantial. Industry estimates suggest that the combined cost to airlines and logistics providers could reach approximately €18 million. This figure encompasses direct disruption costs, lost revenue, and the logistical expense of rebooking thousands of passengers. Furthermore, frequent industrial actions of this magnitude risk damaging Belgium’s reputation as a reliable business and logistics hub. Employer federations often cite reliability as a key factor for international investment, and repeated paralysis of the transport network may have long-term reputational consequences.
From a consumer protection standpoint, it is vital to clarify the legal landscape for affected passengers. Because the strike involves airport staff rather than airline crews, this event is generally classified as an “extraordinary circumstance” under EU Regulation 261/2004. Consequently, airlines are not legally mandated to provide the standard cash compensation often associated with delays. However, we emphasize that the “right to care” remains in full force. Airlines must offer full refunds or rebooking options, and they are obligated to provide meals and accommodation for passengers stranded in transit, regardless of the strike’s classification.
Concluding Section
The total cancellation of departing flights from Brussels Airport on November 26, 2025, serves as a stark reminder of the impact of coordinated industrial action on modern infrastructure. With tens of thousands of passengers displaced and significant economic costs projected, the event highlights the tension between labor rights and the continuity of essential services. As the unions push back against austerity measures, the immediate fallout is borne by travelers and the logistics sector.
Looking ahead, operations are expected to resume following the conclusion of the general strike, but the backlog of passengers and cargo may take days to clear. We advise all travelers to monitor airline communications closely and to prepare for potential residual delays even after the strike officially ends. The resolution of the underlying political and economic disputes regarding wage indexation and budget cuts will likely determine whether similar disruptions occur in the near future.
FAQ
Question: Will I receive financial compensation for my cancelled flight?
Answer: Likely not. Because the strike involves airport security and handling staff (external to the airline), it is considered an “extraordinary circumstance” under EU Regulation 261/2004. This exempts airlines from paying the standard cash compensation (e.g., €250–€600).
Question: Can arriving flights still land at Brussels Airport on November 26?
Answer: Technically, yes. The airport has not banned arrivals. However, many airlines are cancelling inbound flights to avoid having aircraft stranded at the airport, as they cannot depart. You must check with your specific airline.
Question: What should I do if I have a ticket for November 26?
Answer: Do not go to the airport. Contact your airline immediately to request a full refund or to rebook your flight for a later date. Airlines like Air Canada have introduced goodwill policies to facilitate rebooking.
Sources
Photo Credit: Brussels Airport
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
BOC Aviation Orders Up to 220 Pratt Whitney GTF Engines
BOC Aviation finalizes its largest-ever Pratt & Whitney order, buying up to 220 GTF engines for 110 A320neo aircraft at Farnborough 2026.
BOC Aviation Limited has finalized an agreement with Pratt & Whitney to purchase up to 220 Geared Turbofan (GTF) engines to power a fleet of up to 110 Airbus A320neo family aircraft.
Announced on July 21, 2026, at the Farnborough International Airshow, the transaction represents the largest single order the aircraft leasing company has ever placed with the RTX Corporation subsidiary. The deal was originally signed as an undisclosed agreement in June 2025 and reinforces BOC Aviation’s commitment to the GTF platform amid a broader expansion of its narrowbody portfolio.
Deepening a decades-long partnership
The agreement extends a 29-year relationship between the lessor and the engine manufacturer. BOC Aviation Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Steven Townend noted the historical significance of the deal in a press release issued by the companies.
“This order is the largest that BOC Aviation has placed with Pratt & Whitney and a continuation of our 29-year relationship, reflecting the key role they have played in our growth,” Townend stated.
Pratt & Whitney President of Commercial Engines Rick Deurloo emphasized that the order demonstrates continued market confidence in the GTF platform. The manufacturer highlights that the GTF engine delivers a 20 percent reduction in fuel consumption and a 75 percent reduction in noise footprint compared to prior generation engines.
Broader fleet strategy and market positioning
The Pratt & Whitney agreement is part of a dual-sourcing strategy for BOC Aviation’s narrowbody expansion. On July 20, 2026, the lessor announced a separate order for up to 300 CFM International LEAP engines to power both Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737-8 aircraft.
As of June 30, 2026, BOC Aviation reported a total portfolio of 811 aircraft and engines, encompassing owned, managed, and on-order assets. The lessor cited the fuel efficiency of the GTF engines as a primary driver for the acquisition. Townend noted the engines will enable a substantial reduction in fuel costs for future fleet operations.
Pratt & Whitney backlog growth
The BOC Aviation order contributes to a growing backlog for the engine manufacturer. On July 22, 2026, Pratt & Whitney reported that its GTF engine program had surpassed 800 orders and commitments year-to-date, bringing the total program backlog to over 8,000 engines.
AirPro News analysis
We view BOC Aviation’s decision to split its massive narrowbody engine requirements between Pratt & Whitney and CFM International as a standard risk-mitigation strategy for top-tier lessors. By securing up to 220 GTF engines alongside its recent 300-engine CFM LEAP order, BOC Aviation ensures it can offer airline customers their preferred powerplant options on the Airbus A320neo family.
The public confirmation of this order at the Farnborough International Air-Shows provides Pratt & Whitney with valuable commercial momentum. A record-breaking commitment from a major lessor like BOC Aviation signals enduring institutional confidence in the engine’s long-term operating economics.
Sources: BOC Aviation (July 21 Press Release)
Photo Credit: RTX
Commercial Aviation
MSC Air Cargo Orders Five Boeing 777-8 Freighters at Farnborough
MSC Air Cargo placed a firm order for five Boeing 777-8 Freighters at the 2026 Farnborough Airshow, joining 80+ total orders for the type.
MSC Air Cargo has placed a firm order for five Boeing 777-8 Freighters, expanding its dedicated air logistics network with the manufacturer’s newest widebody cargo aircraft. The transaction was formally announced on July 21, 2026, during the Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom.
In a press release issued by The Boeing Company, the manufacturer confirmed the five aircraft were previously attributed to an unidentified customer on its official order book. The acquisition marks the first 777-8 Freighter order for MSC Air Cargo, the aviation subsidiary of ocean shipping giant MSC Group, as the company transitions from outsourced flight operations to building its own internal fleet.
Fleet expansion and operational shift
According to FreightWaves, MSC Air Cargo currently operates seven Boeing 777-200 Freighters. Four of these aircraft are operated on the company’s behalf by Atlas Air, a partnership that began when MSC launched its air cargo division in 2022.
The remaining three 777-200 Freighters are operated internally. Aviation Week reported that MSC Air Cargo secured its own European operating authority in 2024 after purchasing the Italian freight carrier AlisCargo. The addition of the 777-8 Freighters will build upon this existing all-Boeing widebody fleet.
Jannie Davel, chief executive officer of MSC Air Cargo, stated that the order represents an investment in the long-term future of the company and its customer base.
“The 777-8 Freighter gives us the efficiency, range and capacity to serve our customers reliably for years to come, while advancing our commitment to more sustainable operations. It is the right aircraft for the next stage of our growth,” Davel said.
The Boeing 777-8 Freighter market position
Boeing noted in its announcement that widebody freighters currently fly approximately 75 percent of global air cargo capacity. The 777-8 Freighter is positioned to capture replacement and growth demand in this high-capacity sector.
With this transaction, MSC Air Cargo becomes the third Europe-based air cargo operator to select the 777-8 Freighter. Boeing has accumulated more than 80 total orders for the aircraft type to date.
Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of commercial sales and marketing, noted the aircraft will connect the operator’s hubs to key international markets. He described the 777-8 Freighter as the most efficient aircraft in its class, designed to enhance the reach of global air networks.
AirPro News analysis
We view MSC Air Cargo’s transition from an unidentified customer to a named buyer for the Boeing 777-8 Freighter as a clear indicator of the maritime logistics sector’s continued encroachment into dedicated air freight. When MSC Group launched its air division in 2022, relying on Atlas Air provided a low-risk entry into the market. The subsequent acquisition of AlisCargo in 2024 and this direct order for next-generation widebody freighters demonstrate a strategic shift toward full vertical integration. By operating its own aircraft, MSC is positioning itself to capture high-value e-commerce and specialized freight yields directly, bypassing traditional air cargo intermediaries and securing long-term capacity control.
Sources: The Boeing Company
Photo Credit: The Boeing Company
Commercial Aviation
AerolÃneas Argentinas Leases Six Boeing 737-10s from ACG
AerolÃneas Argentinas signs leases for six Boeing 737-10s with ACG at Farnborough, part of a 20-aircraft fleet renewal plan.
AerolÃneas Argentinas has secured lease agreements with Aviation Capital Group (ACG) for six Boeing 737-10 aircraft, marking a critical step in the carrier’s largest fleet modernization effort in a decade.
Announced on July 23, 2026, at the Farnborough International Airshow, the transaction is part of a broader 20-aircraft renewal program scheduled for the 2027-2031 timeframe. According to a press release from ACG, deliveries of the Boeing 737-10s from the lessor’s orderbook will commence in 2028, providing the Argentine flag carrier with increased capacity for high-demand domestic and regional routes across South America.
Comprehensive Fleet Modernization Strategy
The ACG agreement fits into a larger procurement strategy formalized at the Farnborough event. According to reporting by Infobae and La Nación, the airline’s 2027-2031 plan encompasses 20 new aircraft, representing a renewal of 25 percent of its total fleet and 60 percent of its long-haul fleet.
The overall 20-aircraft plan includes six Airbus A330neos, eight Boeing 737-10s, and six Boeing 737-8s. During the airshow, AerolÃneas Argentinas formalized lease agreements for 14 of these aircraft with lessors ACG and Avolon.
Fabián Lombardo, President and Chief Executive Officer of AerolÃneas Argentinas, stated that the agreement reflects a commitment to building a more modern, efficient, and sustainable fleet.
We are pleased to strengthen our relationship with ACG through this agreement for six Boeing 737-10 aircraft. These aircraft are a key part of our 2027-2031 fleet plan and will allow us to add capacity on high-demand domestic and regional routes, improve operating efficiency and continue offering a more competitive product to our passengers.
Financial Restructuring and Self-Financing
The airline’s leadership emphasized that the fleet renewal is entirely self-financed, a notable shift following its recent financial restructuring.
La Nación reported that AerolÃneas Argentinas achieved positive operating results of $56.6 million in 2024 and $120.7 million in 2025, as audited by KPMG. These figures have allowed the carrier to pursue this capital-intensive modernization without relying on state subsidies.
Capacity Expansion with the Boeing 737-10
The Boeing 737-10, the largest variant of the MAX family, will be deployed from the carrier’s primary hubs at Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP) and Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) in Buenos Aires.
Thomas Baker, Chief Executive Officer and President of ACG, highlighted the operational benefits of the aircraft for the South American market.
We are delighted to expand our partnership with AerolÃneas Argentinas as it continues to strengthen its domestic and regional network. The 737-10 offers airlines vital additional capacity, improved fuel efficiency and enhanced profitability, making it well suited to high-demand routes.
AirPro News analysis
We view AerolÃneas Argentinas’ ability to self-finance a 20-aircraft renewal program as a strong indicator of the carrier’s stabilized financial footing following years of restructuring. By securing leases through established lessors like ACG and Avolon rather than direct manufacturer purchases, the airline mitigates upfront capital expenditure while securing near-term delivery slots starting in 2028. The selection of the Boeing 737-10 specifically addresses capacity constraints at slot-restricted airports like Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, allowing the airline to maximize passenger throughput on its most lucrative regional routes without increasing flight frequencies.
Sources: Aviation Capital Group
Photo Credit: Aviation Capital Group
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