BRUSSELS – A national strike in Belgium on Monday severely disrupted air and rail traffic, with workers protesting proposed pension reforms. Around 40 percent of flights at Brussels Airport, the country’s largest, were canceled as baggage handlers, security staff, and other personnel joined the strike.
Brussels Airlines canceled half of its European flights ahead of time to maintain long-haul routes, while Charleroi Airport, a major hub for low-cost airline Ryanair, warned of significant delays and potential cancellations. Rail services were also heavily impacted, with two out of three trains connecting major cities not operating.
The strike, called by Belgium’s three main trade unions, was triggered by concerns over proposed pension cuts by the incoming government. The unions are particularly opposed to raising the retirement age for railway workers and other sectors that currently have early retirement options.
The unions have expressed that up to three billion euros in pension savings are planned. A demonstration is scheduled to take place in Brussels later in the day.
