Brussels Airport faced complete operational shutdown today as unauthorised drone activity brought all air traffic to a standstill, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and facing significant travel disruption.
Total Airspace Closure
Air traffic controllers were forced to implement a full ground stop after multiple drone sightings were reported in the immediate vicinity of the airport. The safety measure, while necessary, created chaos in terminal buildings as departing flights were prevented from taking off and incoming aircraft were diverted to alternative airports.
Passenger Chaos and Growing Frustration
Terminal scenes showed growing queues at information desks as confused travellers sought updates about their journeys. Many passengers reported receiving minimal information from airlines, with some learning about cancellations only after arriving at the airport.
"We've been waiting for three hours with no clear information about when we might be able to leave," shared one frustrated British tourist bound for Manchester. "The staff seem as much in the dark as we are."
Understanding Your Passenger Rights
Under EU passenger rights regulations, which still apply to UK travellers in such circumstances, affected passengers may be entitled to:
- Care and assistance including meals and refreshments during waiting periods
- Hotel accommodation if an overnight stay becomes necessary
- Full refunds for cancelled flights
- Compensation payments depending on the circumstances and length of delay
Security Concerns and Previous Incidents
This isn't the first time drones have caused major airport disruption. The incident echoes the 2018 Gatwick Airport chaos that affected approximately 140,000 passengers. Aviation authorities remain highly vigilant about drone incursions near airports, given the significant safety risks they pose to aircraft during takeoff and landing phases.
Belgian police have launched an investigation to identify and locate the drone operator responsible for today's disruption. Operating drones near airports remains strictly prohibited under aviation safety regulations.
What Affected Passengers Should Do
Travel experts advise stranded passengers to:
- Contact your airline immediately for rebooking options
- Keep all receipts for additional expenses incurred
- Document your delay and any communications with airline staff
- Familiarise yourself with EU261 passenger rights regulations
- Consider travel insurance claims for non-refundable connecting travel expenses
As authorities work to resolve the situation and restore normal operations, passengers are advised to check with their airlines before travelling to the airport and prepare for ongoing disruption throughout the day.
