Glasgow tourists stranded after strikes at Belgian airport
Both Brussels and Charleroi airports were forced to suspend all outbound flights today, June 25, due to industrial action led by airport security staff protesting against government budget cuts and staff shortages.
Estimates suggest the strike has grounded between 50 and 70 UK-bound flights, leaving between 9000 and 12,600 Brits stranded.
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Glasgow Airport typically operates five to seven daily services—via codeshares or direct flights—to Brussels and Charleroi, all of which have been affected by the walkout.
Experts at AirAdvisor have warned that the scale of disruption is significantly larger than usual, coinciding with peak summer travel planning and causing widespread difficulties for passengers.
There are growing concerns about further disruption, with the possibility of more strikes throughout the peak summer months of July and August.
Trade unions have indicated they may call further action every four to six weeks if their demands remain unmet, which could see an impact on 10% to 15% of summer bookings to Belgium.
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The ripple effect of grounded flights may extend across the region, with potential knock-on delays at major neighbouring airports including Paris Charles de Gaulle, Amsterdam Schiphol, and Frankfurt.
Experts have warned that delays are expected and advised that if passengers face delays of more than five hours, travellers are entitled to either a replacement flight or a full refund at no extra cost.
Airlines have already cancelled numerous services and are struggling to secure alternative flights for affected passengers.
Cancelled flight passengers should be offered the choice of rebooking or a refund if they opt not to travel.
The strike has also led to baggage handling delays due to a shortage of staff.
The extensive disruption means missed connections are likely throughout the region.
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AirAdvisor has issued advice for Glasgow passengers impacted by the strike:
Check flight status regularly via your airline's website or app.
Utilise flexible booking options under airline change policies or travel insurance, which may cover losses between £150 and £1,200.
Consider rerouting via alternative hubs such as Amsterdam (KLM) or Paris (Air France), though this may extend travel time by two to four hours.
Keep all receipts for expenses and avoid booking tight layovers in affected regions.
Check FCDO travel advice for updates on Belgium and monitor airline apps for real-time notifications.
Contact customer service directly for rebooking, as other communication channels may face 24-hour response delays.
Finally, AirAdvisor recommends that those planning trips to Belgium consider postponing travel until mid-July, when strike activity may subside.
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