Brussels Airport CEO: No Spontaneous Strikes Expected This Summer
Brussels Airport CEO Arnaud Feist has expressed confidence that no spontaneous strikes will disrupt travel during the peak summer months of July and August 2026, following recent agreements between unions and management at air traffic control operator Skeyes and ground handler Aviapartner. Speaking on Radio 1’s “De Ochtend” program, Feist sought to reassure the more than 5 million passengers expected to pass through the airport this summer.
Background: A Summer of Disruption
The CEO’s statement comes after a turbulent June that saw two separate wildcat strikes cripple operations at Belgium’s main international airport. On June 2, air traffic controllers at Skeyes walked off the job unexpectedly, leading to over 200 flight cancellations nationwide and an estimated EUR 10 million in economic damage. The strike was triggered by dissatisfaction over a preliminary agreement regarding a new digital control center in Namur.
Just two weeks later, on June 15, ground handling company Aviapartner faced its own wildcat strike, with employees walking out over long-standing HR policy issues. Approximately 60 flights were delayed, and long queues formed at check-in counters as the evening shift joined the action. Union representative Jorn Hanssens of ACV Puls explained that experienced workers were being paid the same as new starters, creating deep-seated frustration.
Agreements Reached, Confidence Restored
Following mediation efforts in late June, agreements were reached at both companies. Feist confirmed this on Radio 1, stating: “At Skeyes and Aviapartner, agreements have been concluded between the unions and management. So I do not expect any more spontaneous strikes in July and August. But you are never 100 percent certain.”
The CEO emphasized the disproportionate impact of unannounced strikes, noting that “every strike affects tens of thousands of passengers who are going on holiday or visiting friends and family abroad.” He advocated for mandatory strike notice of approximately two weeks, arguing that this would allow passengers and airlines to prepare adequately.
Passenger Numbers on the Rise
Despite the disruptions, passenger demand remains strong. Brussels Airport expects a 4% year-on-year increase, with over 5 million travelers passing through during the summer period. Feist noted a shift in travel patterns, with passengers choosing shorter-haul destinations in Europe and North Africa, partly driven by higher kerosene prices linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
“I think many people are happy that they can leave on holiday,” Feist said. “We do see a shift in the type of destination: less far, more Europe and North Africa.”
Broader Challenges Ahead
The airport’s recovery has been notable, with 24.4 million passengers welcomed in 2025 — a 3.3% increase — and the company paying its first dividend in seven years. However, challenges remain. In May 2026, Feist warned of potential “total chaos” due to long border control queues, and the broader aviation sector continues to grapple with geopolitical uncertainty and rising fuel costs.
Feist acknowledged the complexity of implementing minimum service requirements during strikes at an airport, describing it as “theoretically interesting but very complex at an airport” given the multitude of stakeholders involved. His primary focus remains on ensuring that future labor disputes are resolved through proper social dialogue rather than spontaneous action.
What to Watch For
With agreements now in place at both Skeyes and Aviapartner, the immediate outlook for Brussels Airport this summer is cautiously optimistic. However, as Feist himself acknowledged, absolute certainty is impossible. The coming weeks will test whether the agreements hold and whether the airport can manage the surge in passenger numbers without further disruption. Travelers are advised to stay informed and plan accordingly as the busy season gets underway.