Belgium will experience two days of labor strikes on Friday, October 9, and Monday, October 12, 2026, affecting flights, trains, and various public services. Around 140 flights are expected to be canceled at Brussels Airport on October 9 following the ground handling company’s participation in the strike. Charleroi Airport plans to maintain all scheduled flights. The national rail operator, SNCB, has announced limited train operations from the evening of Sunday, October 11 through Monday, due to significant rail worker involvement in the strike.
Public Services and Protest Organization
Beyond transport, disruptions will extend to public transportation, education, and waste collection services during the strike days.
The demonstrations are organized jointly by the Christian trade union CSC and the socialist FGTB to contest the Belgian government’s budget policy. A major protest is scheduled in Brussels on October 9, expected to attract thousands of participants.
Government Budget Context and Political Developments
Belgium is managing high public debt and a consistent budget deficit. The center-right government led by Prime Minister Bart De Wever aims to achieve 10 billion euros in budget savings by 2029. De Wever is set to address the Belgian Parliament on Tuesday, October 13, ahead of the government’s deadline to submit a draft budget to the European Commission by October 15,
2026.
Travel Impact and Official Announcements
Travelers should expect flight cancellations primarily at Brussels Airport on October 9 and limited SNCB rail services from the evening of October 11 through October 12. Ground handling at Brussels Airport confirmed their strike participation leading to flight cancellations. SNCB reiterated the planned limited service during the strike period. The organized protests by CSC and FGTB have prompted the wide public sector strikes affecting transport and other services.
