Approximately 140 flights will be cancelled at Brussels Airport on Friday, October 9, 2026, as staff from ground handling company Alyzia join a national strike. The disruption primarily affects flights to and from London Heathrow and Manchester, key routes served by Brussels Airlines.
Brussels Airlines Flight Cancellations and Exceptions
Brussels Airlines has cancelled several flights on October 9. Flights to London Heathrow at 16:55 and to Manchester at 10:00 and 21:30 will not operate. Outbound flights from Manchester at 08:30 and 13:30, and from Heathrow at 20:00 are also canceled. Other affected routes include flights to and from Paris, Budapest, Madrid, and Chicago. British Airways flights,
including those to and from Edinburgh, remain unaffected since their ground handling is managed by a different provider. Low-cost carriers Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air are also unaffected as they use alternative ground handling services at Brussels Airport.
Strike Details and Impact on Airlines
The strike involves Alyzia staff responsible for baggage processing, ramp operations, de-icing, aircraft cleaning, and cargo transport for about 20 airlines at Brussels Airport. Approximately half of the flights Alyzia handles are expected to operate, but around 140 cancellations reflect the scale of the disruption. This industrial action is part of a nationwide protest affecting Belgian ground handling workers. It marks the
third such labor strike to impact Brussels Airlines in 2026. Brussels Airlines confirmed its own staff will not participate in the strike or demonstrations.
Passenger Rights and Official Statements
Passengers affected by these strike-related cancellations will receive rebooking or refunds without charge. Airlines are also required to provide necessary food, drink, and accommodation when needed. Brussels Airport anticipates significant inconvenience due to the actions of the unionized Alyzia staff. Brussels Airlines expressed regret over the disruption, stating, “We regret that this is already the third time this year that our flight schedule has been seriously disrupted by industrial action taken by external parties.” The airline
noted the cancellations are considered extraordinary circumstances, meaning passengers are not entitled to compensation.
Alyzia will contact impacted passengers directly with information regarding flight status. Additionally, Belgium faces a public sector strike on Monday that will not affect air traffic but may disrupt public transportation, potentially delaying travel to and from Brussels Airport.
