National Strike in Belgium

27 January 2012

THREE of the largest trade unions in Belgium have called for a general 24-hour strike on January 30 in protest against social reforms.

There is uncertainty at this stage as to the total impact of the strike on services, but air services will likely be disrupted as the Belgian Pilots Organisation (BECA) has called on all airline pilots to participate in the general strike.

This organisation denounces what it calls "the incoherent government policies" around the plans and "a totally irresponsible reform project."

It has also been confirmed that Belgium's low cost airport Charleroi, used by airlines such as Ryanair, will be closed. The decision was reportedly made after Belgian unions said they would blockade the main entrance road to the terminal.