Brussels Airport closed after drones spotted over airfield — flights diverting
On the evening of November 4th, Brussels Airport was fully shut down following reports of several drones flying over or close to the airport’s restricted airspace. All incoming and outgoing flights were immediately suspended to ensure safety.
Flights bound for Brussels were rerouted to nearby airports, including Charleroi and Liège, as well as Ostend-Bruges, Maastricht, and Eindhoven. Several planes approaching the Belgian capital were forced into holding patterns, primarily over the southern Limburg region, awaiting further instructions.
“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,” said a spokesperson for Brussels Airport Company.
Authorities have confirmed that at least three drones were sighted over the Brussels area. The Belgian Civil Aviation Authority and federal police have begun an investigation to locate and identify those responsible. Drone operations within controlled airspace remain strictly forbidden due to the serious threat they pose to aviation safety.
Author’s Summary
The temporary closure of Brussels Airport after multiple drone sightings highlights the growing risks of unauthorized drone activity near restricted airspace.