Updated: 9 October 2026. Information reflects official notices checked on this date; services may change.
The Belgium strike October 2026 disruptions affect different services on different dates. Friday 9 October brings a demonstration in Brussels, disruption to STIB transport and some flight cancellations. A separate action on Monday 12 October will reduce train services, with rail disruption beginning on Sunday evening.
For commuters, visitors and anyone heading to the airport, the essential step is to check the operator responsible for each part of the journey. A flight operating normally does not mean your usual train or bus to the airport will be available.
Belgium strike October 2026: the key dates
| Date | What travellers should know |
|---|---|
| Friday 9 October | Demonstration in central Brussels, STIB disruption and some cancellations at Brussels Airport. |
| Sunday 11 October, from 22:00 | SNCB/NMBS rail disruption begins. |
| Monday 12 October | Reduced rail services through the last train; possible STIB disruption. Brussels Airport currently expects no direct impact on air traffic. |
Sources: UK government travel advice, SNCB strike information, STIB announcement and Brussels Airport passenger notice.
Are flights cancelled at Brussels Airport?
Some flights on Friday 9 October have been cancelled because part of the workforce at ground handler Alyzia is expected to join the action. Brussels Airport says more than half of Alyzia-handled flights are expected to operate. For flights handled by Aviapartner, it currently expects no impact.
Affected airlines have contacted passengers about their options. Check your airline’s app or booking page, as well as the airport flight information. Airport cancellations appear only once registered by the airline.
For Monday 12 October, Brussels Airport currently expects no impact on air traffic from the public-sector action. However, it warns that public transport disruption may affect journeys to and from the terminal.
Check the latest Brussels Airport information before setting out. This notice concerns Brussels Airport at Zaventem; travellers using Charleroi should check their own airport and airline separately.
Will trains run on Monday 12 October?
SNCB/NMBS confirms that fewer trains will be available from Sunday 11 October at 22:00 until the last train on Monday 12 October.
An alternative timetable will be organised according to staff availability. SNCB says the service plan will appear in its journey planner 24 hours in advance, so check on the day before travel and again before leaving.
Look up your complete journey, including connections and your return trip. For international services, consult your operator and SNCB International.
Use the SNCB strike page and journey planner for current information.
What about Brussels metros, trams and buses?
STIB/MIVB has announced disruption to its network on Friday 9 October. It also warns of possible disruption on Monday 12 October because of public-sector industrial action.
Check the STIB service updates for your specific route. Avoid relying on a saved timetable or assuming that a service available in the morning will remain unchanged throughout the day.
For journeys involving other networks, consult De Lijn or TEC directly for route-specific updates.
How to prepare for a disrupted journey
- Check every connection. Your airport transfer and flight may be affected differently.
- Allow extra time. Build in a buffer for changed routes or missed connections.
- Plan an alternative. Consider walking, cycling or arranging a lift where practical. Confirm taxi availability beforehand if your journey is essential.
- Speak to your employer or appointment provider. Ask about remote working or rescheduling if your usual journey is unavailable.
- Keep travel records. Save cancellation messages, booking details and receipts if you need to request reimbursement.
What if your flight is cancelled?
For flights covered by EU passenger-rights rules, a cancellation generally gives passengers a choice between reimbursement and rerouting. Assistance can include meals and, where necessary while awaiting rerouting, accommodation and transport to the hotel.
Additional cash compensation is a separate question. It depends on the circumstances, including whether the disruption qualifies as extraordinary circumstances. A strike does not automatically mean every passenger receives compensation—or loses all rights.
Consult the EU’s official air passenger rights guide. For more practical detail, read Together’s Flight Cancelled or Delayed? Your Compensation Rights in 2026.
Whether you are commuting across Brussels or catching an international flight, check official updates shortly before departure and keep a backup plan ready.
Flight cancellation and compensation rights” to link to https://togethermag.eu/flight-cancelled-delayed-compensation-hotel-rights-2026/.
