The Foreign Office has issued a warning to UK tourists regarding a national strike in Belgium scheduled for 12 May. The FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) has shared new information for travellers to the popular EU holiday hotspot.
What the FCDO Says
The FCDO stated: "A national strike is planned for 12 May. This is expected to cause severe travel disruption across public transport and may affect wider public services, including schools. International flights are likely to be heavily affected, with potential cancellations at short notice. A large-scale demonstration is also planned in central Brussels on 12 May."
The advisory notes that strike action is an ongoing issue that can cause travel disruption. Previous general strikes took place on 31 March, 29 April, 14 October, 26 November, 15 December 2025, and 12 March 2026. Strike action may be announced at short notice.
Advice for Travellers
The FCDO advises: "Monitor local news and check with your provider regarding potential delays and closures. Always check with your travel operator for the latest updates. Read more information about demonstrations and strikes on the Safety and security page."
Brussels Airport Impact
A bulletin posted on the Brussels Airport website expressed regret for upcoming inconveniences caused by the national strike. The airport said that the strike on 12 May will reduce staff at certain service suppliers and disrupt airport operations. "Unfortunately, a large number of departing flights will have to be cancelled. This can also impact certain arriving flights," the bulletin read, adding that affected passengers will be contacted and given further options.
According to The Brussels Times, as many as half of flights scheduled on 12 May will be cancelled. "In collaboration with all relevant partners, Brussels Airport is working to ensure that as many flights as possible can depart that day," the airport stated.
Political and Union Reactions
Jan Jambon, from the office of the pensions minister, reportedly argued for a possible increase in the retirement age for pilots to 67 within the European Union. This came after unions criticised the current legislation, which forces pilots to stop their core activity at 65 while being obliged to work longer. "That combination is downright absurd: pilots are obliged to work, but at the same time are obliged to stop their core activity at 65. The legislation is clearly flawed here," the unions said in a joint statement.
