The Flemish government is preparing to gradually reduce public subsidies for Antwerp Airport, Ostend-Bruges Airport and Kortrijk-Wevelgem Airport, raising fresh questions about the long-term viability of the region’s smaller airports.
According to reports, Flemish Mobility Minister Annick De Ridder is drafting new subsidy agreements aimed at reducing the airports’ dependence on government support. The three airports received a combined €13 million in operating subsidies from Flanders last year, in addition to investment aid provided in recent years.
Despite this support, the airports continue to face financial challenges. Antwerp and Kortrijk reported losses in 2024, while Ostend only recorded a profit after accounting for one-off revenues. A previous cost-benefit study concluded that closing Antwerp and Kortrijk airports could be the most economically favourable option, although the Flemish government has ruled out closures for now.
The government instead wants the airports to become more self-sufficient by developing unused land, increasing passenger traffic, improving public transport links and expanding renewable energy projects such as solar installations. However, coalition partners have reportedly criticised the current proposals for lacking a clear path to long-term profitability.
A key element of the strategy could involve closer cooperation with Brussels Airport, in which Flanders recently became the largest shareholder. Under this approach, the regional airports could share services such as security and staffing while also acting as complementary facilities to the increasingly congested national airport. Ostend, in particular, is seen as having potential to strengthen its position in the cargo market.
The debate has become more politically sensitive since Flanders acquired its stake in Brussels Airport, with some questioning whether continued subsidies for regional airports effectively amount to supporting competitors to the country’s main aviation hub.