Air traffic controllers file strike notice at Charleroi Airport

Air traffic controllers at Brussels South Charleroi Airport have filed a strike notice that is due to take effect on 12 August, Belgian air navigation service provider Skeyes confirmed on Thursday.

According to Skeyes, the industrial action stems from a demand by the unions representing air traffic controllers at Charleroi for a 60% increase in the allowance paid for night duty. If granted, the allowance would exceed €1,000 per night shift per controller, the company said.

Skeyes noted that Charleroi Airport is closed to scheduled traffic between 23:00 and 06:00, with only a limited number of exceptional night movements. On average, the airport handles around two delayed flights per night, typically involving aircraft based at Charleroi.

A conciliation meeting is scheduled for Friday, offering hope that industrial action can still be avoided. Under Belgium’s social dialogue procedures, the conciliation process temporarily suspends the announced strike action while negotiations take place.

Skeyes said it is entering the discussions with the firm intention of avoiding disruption for passengers, airlines and the airport, and called on all parties to give the conciliation process a genuine opportunity to reach an agreement.

The strike notice comes just hours after concerns were raised over the planned 11-week closure of Charleroi Airport in 2028 for major runway reconstruction, although the two issues are unrelated.