Brussels Airport closed after drones spotted over airfield — flights diverting
On the evening of November 4, Brussels Airport was forced to halt operations after several drones were sighted flying near its restricted zone. All flights to and from the Belgian capital have been stopped, and planes en route were redirected to nearby airports including Charleroi, Liège, Ostend-Bruges, Maastricht, and Eindhoven.
Aircraft approaching Brussels entered holding patterns over southern Limburg while awaiting instructions. Airport officials, air traffic controllers, and police are jointly working with aviation safety agencies to evaluate the threat and secure the area.
“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.
According to Het Laatste Nieuws, at least three drones were observed over the Brussels area. Both the Belgian Civil Aviation Authority and federal police have opened an investigation to locate those responsible. Flying drones within controlled airspace remains strictly forbidden due to the severe risks it poses to flight operations.
Author’s Summary
Drone incursions near Brussels Airport caused a full shutdown on November 4, with flights diverted and authorities launching an investigation into the illegal activity.