October 2, 2026 — Brussels transit operator STIB/MIVB warned on October 2 that its metro, tram and bus network will be disrupted on Friday, October 9, during a national union demonstration. A public-sector strike on Monday, October 12, may also affect Belgian trains and Brussels transit.
Friday, October 9: Brussels
- Who: the FGTB/ABVV and CSC/ACV union federations are holding a national demonstration in Brussels and have filed a joint strike notice. Some STIB staff will take part.
- What to expect: lines may be cut and stations closed along the march route. STIB says it will try to run at least a partial service.
- Lines affected: TBA. STIB will post real-time information from 06:00 on its website, app and social media.
Monday, October 12: public services and rail
- Who: the socialist public-service union CGSP/ACOD has called a public-sector strike for October 12. Its rail section said it would file a notice covering SNCB/NMBS and Infrabel, RTBF reported on September 25.
- Who is not striking: the CSC public-services union is limiting itself to awareness actions.
- Hours and train timetable: TBA. RTBF notes that the rail employer rejected two earlier strike notices this year on procedural grounds, so it is not yet certain the rail strike will go ahead.
- Brussels transit: STIB says October 12 may also bring disruption.
What it means for airline travelers
- Brussels Airport (BRU) on October 12: the airport train is the usual link to the city. If SNCB posts a reduced timetable, plan on an airport bus or a taxi instead.
- In the city on October 9: allow extra time and check the STIB app before you set out. Stay clear of the march route.
- Rail tickets: check SNCB’s site a day or two ahead. Belgian rail usually publishes a strike timetable shortly before the day.
- Charleroi (CRL): a night-time air traffic control strike there remains suspended for mediation. The strike notice runs to October 10.
- Standby travelers: avoid tight connections between a train and a flight on October 12.
