Brussels Airport Flights Continue Despite Permit Annulment

Brussels Airport has confirmed that flight operations will continue uninterrupted despite the recent annulment of its environmental permit. In a statement, the airport emphasized that the decision has no impact on current operations and all flights will proceed as planned under the conditions of the annulled permit.

The announcement follows a July 17 ruling by Belgium’s Council for Permit Disputes, which invalidated the environmental permit granted in March 2024. The permit had introduced stricter environmental measures, including a flight cap of 240,000 annual movements by 2032 and tougher night-time restrictions aimed at reducing aircraft noise.

The council upheld complaints from Brussels Airlines and 20 other parties, including municipalities and regional governments. The ruling found that the airport failed to follow the EU’s required “balanced approach” process, which mandates stakeholder consultation before imposing restrictions that impact operations.

Brussels Airport Company (BAC) also challenged a requirement to pay EUR10 million (USD11.6 million) annually to railway operator Infrabel. The council sided with BAC, declaring the surcharge illegal due to insufficient regulatory backing.

Despite the permit being revoked, the council acknowledged the airport’s vital economic role and allowed continued operations under the annulled permit until June 30, 2029. A new permit must be secured by then, adhering to proper EU procedures.

Brussels Airport reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable growth, stating it will take all necessary steps to obtain a compliant permit. The airport remains focused on balancing connectivity, economic development, and environmental responsibility for the future.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com