The Foreign Office has revised its travel advisory for Belgium, a favored destination among UK holidaymakers, following an impending air traffic controller strike. The industrial action is scheduled to disrupt airports across the European Union country on Tuesday, June 2, between 2pm and 9pm local time.
Strike Details and Impact
According to the Foreign Office, the strike will affect Belgian airports during the specified hours. Travelers are advised to contact their airport and travel operator for the latest updates. The advisory notes that strike action is an ongoing issue, with previous general strikes occurring on numerous dates in 2025 and 2026, including March 31, April 29, October 14, November 26, December 15, 2025, and March 12 and May 12, 2026. Such actions may be announced at short notice.
The Foreign Office statement urges: "Monitor local news and check with your provider regarding potential delays and closures. Always check with your travel operator for the latest updates. Read more information about demonstrations and strikes on the Safety and security page."
Brussels Airport Confirms Cancellations
Brussels Airport has confirmed that air traffic will be halted on Tuesday due to the unscheduled strike by air traffic controllers. "The airlines will have to cancel all scheduled flights," the airport stated. The industrial action at Skeyes, the Belgian air traffic control provider, is linked to ongoing negotiations between management and trade unions concerning the new digital control center for Liège and Charleroi airports, which will be located in Namur, Wallonia.
Skeyes manages air traffic to and from Belgian airports and airspace up to approximately 7,500 meters. Aircraft overflying Belgium at higher altitudes are managed by Eurocontrol, which is unaffected by the strike.
Airlines Respond
Brussels Airlines expressed regret over the disruption: "Our teams are doing everything they can to find solutions for our travellers. We deeply regret the disruption these actions are causing our passengers and staff, especially as the actions are taking place without prior notice. We understand the inconvenience and uncertainty this creates for thousands of travellers."
The full extent of the impact on air traffic remains unclear, but travelers are advised to stay informed and make alternative arrangements if necessary.
