Crash alerts at Brussels Airport reach record low

Brussels Airport last year responded 13 times to a crash alert, an alarm sent out by an aircraft in distress while approaching the national airport, including both cargo and passenger aircraft.

The figure has not been this low in 30 years, according to a survey by fire and emergency medical care service Siamu of the Brussels-Capital Region. Siamu is called upon for reinforcement of Brussels Airport’s fire brigade and police forces every time the crash alarm is activated.

In all 13 cases last year, the aircraft were able to land without major problems, after the crew had announced a possible emergency landing. The majority of the incidents had to do with breakdowns or suspected problems with engines or aircraft landing gear.

In 2012, the emergency procedure was started 14 times. In 2007, there were 36 crash alarms recorded. The figure has nonetheless been on the decline over the last 20 years, despite an increase in air traffic.