Strike at Charleroi and Brussels Airports on June 25

Planning to fly from Charleroi or Brussels Airport on June 25, 2025? The big airport strike in Belgium could disrupt your trip with widespread flight cancellations and delays. We’re here to break down what the strike means for your flight and explain your rights as a passenger. Read on to stay informed and take control of your travel plans despite the disruption.

National strike grounds flights at Charleroi and impacts Zaventem operations

Travelers preparing for summer holidays out of Belgium face serious disruptions. All flights to and from Brussels South Charleroi Airport (BSCA) on Tuesday, June 25 have been officially cancelled due to a national strike organized by a joint union front protesting federal government measures.

In a public statement, Charleroi airport acknowledged they cannot guarantee safe operations on that day due to insufficient staffing levels. Affected passengers will be contacted directly by their airline regarding rebooking options or full refunds.

But the disruption doesn’t stop at Charleroi. Brussels Airport (Zaventem) has also confirmed that all departing passenger flights on June 25 have been preemptively cancelled, with possible delays and cancellations for arriving flights as well.

What’s the reason behind the June 25th nation strike?

The national strike is being organized by Belgian labor unions to protest federal policies affecting public sector workers, job conditions, and purchasing power. The coordinated strike will impact not only airports, but also public transport and other government services across Belgium.

What should affected passengers by the June 25th strike do?

If your flight was scheduled on June 25 from or to either Charleroi or Brussels Airport, here’s what you need to know:

• Airlines are obligated to offer a refund or an alternative flight.
• If you choose not to travel, you are entitled to a full refund, even for non-refundable tickets.
• Keep all booking confirmations and document any additional costs incurred, such as accommodation, meals, or alternative travel (train, bus, etc.), to claim reimbursement.

Can I claim compensation for my flight affected by the Belgian strike on June 25th?

Unfortunately, no. Under EU Regulation EC 261/2004, passengers are only eligible for financial compensation if the disruption is the airline’s fault. In this case, the strike involves airport and support personnel, not airline employees, therefore, this is considered an “extraordinary circumstance” beyond the airline's control.

This means that while you are not entitled to fixed compensation of up to €600 per person, you still retain important rights as a passenger. You have the right to meals and accommodation if stranded, plus a full refund or alternative transport. Last-minute travel costs may also be reimbursed, depending on your airline.

Other flight problems? Don’t miss your chance to claim compensation

Was your flight delayed or cancelled for a reason unrelated to the Brussels Airport strike on June 25? You might still be eligible for compensation! Use our free Claim Calculator to check your flight, and submit your claim in just a few clicks. We’ll handle the entire process for you and even take the airline to court if necessary. Best of all, we operate on a “no win, no fee” basis, so you only pay if you win and receive your compensation!