On the evening of 4 November, Brussels Airport shut down following multiple drone sightings near the runway, grounding all flights pending an investigation.
Airport Closure Details
Brussels Airport was closed on 4 November 2024 after reports of three drones operating near the runway area. No aircraft were allowed to take off or land for safety reasons, as stated by the Brussels Airport Company spokesperson.
Flight Diversions and Passenger Advice
Airlines redirect aircraft to nearby airports – Charleroi, Liège, Ostend‑Bruges, Maastricht and Eindhoven. Passengers are urged to check up‑to‑date flight information directly with their carriers.
Drone Incidents and Investigation
Drone presence is strictly prohibited at the airport, where it poses a collision risk. The Belgian Civil Aviation Authority and Federal Police have launched an investigation to identify the operators.
Similar Incidents in Europe
Similar drone sightings caused temporary closures at Copenhagen and Oslo airports in September. Drones were also spotted over a Belgian military airbase last weekend, earlier seen in Estonia.
