Baggage handlers' strike leaves more than 1,000 suitcases stranded at Brussels Airport

There are an estimated 1,300 pieces of luggage waiting to be claimed at Brussels Airport following a strike by baggage handlers last weekend.

Aviapartner baggage handlers went on strike over concerns about a heavy workload and the application of points-based driving licences for workers at Brussels Airport.

The strike led to delays and some flights taking off without their passengers’ luggage – an estimated 5,000 suitcases in all.

Affected travellers are being told not to come collect their missing luggage until summoned by the airport.

If a person missing their luggage has not yet received any communication from the airport, they can go to www.brusselsairport.be to check whether their airline's luggage is available.

“Following the strike at baggage handler Aviapartner on Saturday 18 February, we are closely working with our partners to process all baggage as quickly as possible,” Brussels Airport announced.

“We have a list of flights that landed on Saturday 18 February but could not be offloaded due to the strike. All baggage processed since then can be collected at Brussels Airport. We will update this list regularly so that you always have the latest information.”

If the baggage is indicated as available, passengers can bring their identity card, along with a baggage tag or boarding pass, to the arrivals hall between 9.00 and 21.00 to collect it.

Travellers must also fill in a document claiming their baggage via the airport’s website, which Brussels Airport says will speed up the distribution of remaining luggage.

A specific question and answer page has been added to the Brussels Airport website with further information and the option to contact the airport online directly.