Brussels Airport Closed After Drones Detected Over Airfield
On the evening of November 4, Brussels Airport was forced to shut down completely after several drones were reportedly observed flying near or within its restricted airspace. Authorities moved quickly to suspend all inbound and outbound flights, diverting air traffic bound for the Belgian capital to nearby airports including Charleroi, Liège, Ostend-Bruges, Maastricht, and Eindhoven.
Several approaching aircraft entered holding patterns, mainly over the southern Limburg region, as they awaited updated flight instructions. Air traffic controllers worked in coordination with police and aviation safety agencies to manage the situation and minimize disruption.
“We are currently investigating reports of drone activity in the vicinity of the airport. For safety reasons, no aircraft are taking off or landing at this time,” a spokesperson for Brussels Airport Company stated.
Local media sources, including Het Laatste Nieuws, reported that at least three drones were seen over the Brussels area. The Belgian Civil Aviation Authority and federal police have begun an investigation to track down those responsible. Flying drones in controlled airspace remains strictly forbidden due to the significant risks it poses to aviation safety.
Author’s Summary
The sudden closure of Brussels Airport after confirmed drone sightings underscores the severe safety risks unauthorized drones create for European air travel and passenger security.