Brussels Airport has been completely shut down this evening, 4th of November, after multiple drones were reportedly seen flying over or near the airport’s restricted area. All inbound and outbound flights have been suspended, and air traffic to the Belgian capital is currently being diverted to nearby airports like Charleroi and Liège Airport but also to Ostend-Bruges, Maastricht and Eindhoven.
Several aircraft on approach to Brussels have entered holding patterns, mainly over the southern Limburg region, while awaiting further instructions. Air traffic controllers and airport authorities are coordinating with police and aviation safety agencies to assess the situation.
A spokesperson for Brussels Airport Company confirmed that operations have been temporarily halted: “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.”
According to information obtained by Het Laatste Nieuws, at least three drones were spotted over the Brussels area. The Belgian Civil Aviation Authority and federal police have launched an investigation to identify the operators.
Drone activity in controlled airspace is strictly prohibited due to the high risk it poses to aviation safety. Even small drones can cause severe damage if they collide with an aircraft, especially during take-off or landing.
At this stage, it remains unclear how long the airport will remain closed. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest flight information.
Aviation24.be will update this story as more details become available.
Forum discussion: BRU 04/11/2025
