Belgium’s two major airports, Brussels and Liege, were closed on Tuesday evening, after multiple drone sightings were reported near their airspace.
Late on Tuesday evening, a statement was sent out by the Belgian air traffic control service that a drone had been spotted in the vicinity of Brussels Airport just before 8:00 p.m. local time. All flight operations were immediately halted to ensure the safety of passengers as well as the integrity of airport infrastructure.
Disruption to Flights Passengers
Disruption went through the largest airport in Belgium Brussels Airport. There were about fifteen outbound flights that were barred from taking off. Eight incoming flights were diverted elsewhere. Liege Airport, a major cargo hub of Belgium, also bore the brunt. Flights were grounded here as well following similar sightings of drones. Passengers were shown forming long queues at service desks.
Repeated Sightings Cause Extended Closures
Brussels Airport briefly reopened after two hours, but fresh sightings of drones made it close again. By that time, a “Zero Rate” incident was declared, meaning no flight was allowed, either to land or take off, until further notice. Operations were also suspended in Charleroi Airport, which was also safe from direct sightings of drones.
Security Measures Investigations
Officials from Belgian authorities launched an investigation into the flying drones. A police helicopter was sent to lock on to a suspected drone in the area around Brussels Airport. Defence Minister Theo Francken declared that this was a situation that seemed to involve professional operatives who she was potentially set to destabilize the country. Interior Minister Bernard Quintin ordered the coordination of the national response and requested that the Prime Minister convene the National Security Council.
Broader Concerns Across Europe
Such incidences involving drones in Belgium seemed to be repetitions of incidents that occurred earlier within the week in Denmark and Norway. Concerns have been raised by officials about the way close unauthorized intrusions by drones near critical infrastructures such as airports are becoming common.
Obscurity About Resumption of Services
Brussels Airport opened on Wednesday morning, although officials warned travelers that they would likely face continuing delays and cancellations. Liege Airport was also opened for limited operations, and cargo schedules were still disrupted. No information was given regarding the time of full restoration of operation by the authorities. Travelers have been encouraged to check with their airlines before heading to the airport.
