Brussels Airport Closed After Drones Spotted Over Airfield
On the evening of November 4, Brussels Airport was completely closed after several drones were reported near restricted airspace. All departing and arriving flights were suspended, causing significant disruptions to air travel in and out of the Belgian capital.
Air traffic bound for Brussels was redirected to nearby airports such as Charleroi, Liège, Ostend-Bruges, Maastricht, and Eindhoven. Several aircraft in approach zones entered holding patterns above the southern Limburg region as they awaited clearance.
Airport authorities and air traffic controllers coordinated closely with federal police and aviation safety agencies to manage the situation and ensure safety. The closure remains in effect while officials verify the extent of drone intrusions.
“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.”
A spokesperson for Brussels Airport Company confirmed the temporary suspension of operations. According to local media Het Laatste Nieuws, at least three drones were seen in the Brussels area. The Belgian Civil Aviation Authority and federal police have launched an active investigation to trace the operators responsible.
Summary
Drone sightings above Brussels Airport forced a full shutdown and flight diversions as authorities and police investigate the breach of restricted airspace.