A major European airport has been forced to cancel more than 100 flights today as strike action sparks chaos for thousands of passengers. Today’s disruptions are caused by limited staff presence at baggage handler Alyzia, whose taking part in the nationwide strikes in Belgium. The airport expects only half of the flights handled by Alyzia to operate as planned, with the rest cancelled. Alyzia provides ground handling services including baggage processing and passenger aircraft ground support for around 20 airlines at the airport.
Brussels Airport spokesperson Ihsane Chioua said: “The national union action is impacting one of our baggage handlers. We obviously regret the consequences this may have for our passengers.”
Brussels Airlines has had to cancel 40% of its flights. Chioua added: “We feel it is important to emphasize that no one at Brussels Airlines is on strike.”
In response Brussels Airlines said “That this is already the third time this year” their “flight schedule has been seriously disrupted by industrial action taken by external parties”. The airline added the strikes are “disrupting the travel plans of thousands of passengers and is having a significant financial impact on Brussels Airlines”.
Emirates and United Airlines are also among the airlines affected by the strike as they use Alyzia’s services. However, airlines that use Aviapartner will not be affected. This ground handling partner provides services to major airlines operating routes to the UK, including British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, TUI, and Wizz Air.
Some 400 flights will still operate on Friday, the airport said, on average, around 500 flights take off and land daily at the largest and busiest airport in Belgium.
Public transport is also expected to be disrupted in Brussels today, the strike action comes as workers protest against governmental policies.
Further trade union action is taking place on Monday Octobe 12, organised by the CGSP union. Brussels Airport does not expect any disruption to flights. “There will undoubtedly be some impact on public transport ,” warns Chioua .
Passengers making their way to the airport by bus or train are advised to check their route in advance and allow plenty of time to arrive on time for their flight.
The UK’s Foreign Office has warned that a demonstration will take place in central Brussels today and that the strike will affect public transport and other public services in Brussels.
“Monitor local news and check with your provider regarding potential delays and closures,” the advice states. “Always check with your travel operator for the latest updates.”
It’s general advice for demonstrations reads: “If you are in areas where large gatherings are taking place, remain vigilant and move away quickly if there are signs of disorder. Avoid protests, expect delays on some major roads and follow the advice of the authorities.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
