Belgium is set to face significant disruptions on Thursday, 13 February 2025, as a nationwide strike and large-scale demonstration are scheduled to take place in Brussels. The joint trade union front has organized a day of action in protest against the Federal Government’s plans, which will affect various sectors, including transportation, public services, and education.
Impact on Transportation
Air Travel
A major consequence of the strike is the complete shutdown of air travel in Belgium.
- No flights will take off or land in the country between 06:45 and 22:15, following the participation of air traffic controllers from Skeyes in the strike.
- Brussels Airport (Zaventem) and Brussels-South Airport (Charleroi) have confirmed that all scheduled departures and most arrivals are cancelled.
- Some flights have been diverted to nearby airports in Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Düsseldorf, and Maastricht.
- Passengers affected by cancellations should contact their airlines for alternative arrangements or refunds.
Train Services
- SNCB has not received a strike notice, meaning trains are expected to run as scheduled.
- However, SNCB has warned of high passenger volumes as demonstrators travel to and from Brussels.
- Passengers are advised to check real-time updates on sncb.be or the SNCB app before traveling.
Public Transport & Road Traffic
- STIB (Brussels): Severe disruptions are expected, with only limited metro, tram, and bus services likely to operate.
- De Lijn (Flanders) & TEC (Wallonia): Reduced bus and tram services.
- Road Traffic: Major congestion is expected, especially around demonstration areas, including Boulevard Albert II, Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, Boulevard du Midi, and the Small Ring Road (R20). Several tunnels will also be closed.
- Parking bans will be enforced along major routes from 08:00, and police recommend using alternative transportation or working from home.
Public Services and Other Sectors Affected
Schools
- Education unions are participating in the strike, potentially leading to school closures.
- Free childcare should be provided, but some schools may lack staff to supervise students and could remain closed.
Postal and Waste Collection Services
- Bpost workers are striking, leading to delayed or canceled letter and parcel deliveries, particularly in Brussels and Wallonia.
- Rubbish collection is disrupted in several communes, including Brussels, Antwerp, Kraainem, and Londerzeel. Residents are advised to check their local commune’s website.
Other Public Services
- Many administrative offices in Brussels and Saint-Josse-ten-Noode will be closed or have limited operations.
- Prisons will face staff shortages, with minimum occupancy levels not met due to widespread participation in the strike.
Other Events Adding to the Disruptions
Bright Festival
- From 13 to 16 February, the Bright Festival will take place in Brussels, closing several streets to traffic from 18:30 to midnight.
Europa League Match: Union Saint-Gilloise vs. Ajax
- The Europa League match at King Baudouin Stadium (18:45) will cause additional traffic congestion in the Heysel area.
NATO Summit
- A NATO summit on 12-13 February is unlikely to cause major disruptions but could lead to minor road closures.
Advice for Residents and Travelers
Given the widespread disruptions, residents and travelers are advised to plan ahead, use alternative transport, or work remotely where possible. Check official websites for real-time updates on transport and services.
Stay informed and prepare for a challenging day across Belgium on Thursday, 13 February 2025.