Ryanair faces 1,043 criminal summonses in Belgium over alleged social fraud

Ryanair is facing renewed legal pressure in Belgium following an eight-year investigation into alleged social fraud and breaches of employment and social security legislation.

According to Belgian newspaper Le Soir, which reported on 28 October 2026, authorities have prepared 1,043 criminal summonses relating to suspected irregularities in the employment of pilots, cabin crew members and other personnel. The investigation particularly concerns Ryanair’s operations around Brussels Airport and Brussels South Charleroi Airport.

The Belgian state reportedly expects to recover at least €5 million in unpaid social security contributions.

Justice Minister Annelies Verlinden confirmed during a parliamentary session on 21 October that the criminal summonses had been prepared, although they were still awaiting final validation by the relevant prosecutorial authorities.

The investigation, which began in 2018, examines Ryanair’s employment arrangements, social security contributions and the use of foreign employment structures. Authorities have been looking into whether the airline complied with Belgian labour and social security legislation when employing personnel based in Belgium.

The lengthy investigation has attracted criticism from trade unions. Didier Lebbe of the CNE union has expressed frustration over the delays, arguing that affected workers have been waiting years for the case to progress.

International judicial cooperation has also contributed to the delays, including requests for assistance from the United Kingdom.

Ryanair’s response to the latest developments was not available at the time of publication.

The case has not yet resulted in a conviction. However, if the proceedings go ahead, they could have significant implications for Ryanair’s employment practices in Belgium and potentially set an important precedent for the enforcement of labour and social security legislation in the aviation sector.

Sources:

• Le Soir, 28 October 2026.
• Belgian Chamber of Representatives, parliamentary exchange of 21 October 2026.
• Belgian parliamentary records, 4 October 2023.
• Belgian Social Information and Investigation Service (SIOD), announcement of 15 September 2023.