Delays at Brussels Airport as baggage handlers work to rule

Several flights at Brussels Airport are delayed because of sudden industrial action by baggage handlers.

Swissport employees have called a work to rule in a protest about short-staffing. Talks between unions and management broke down on Monday night.

ACLVB union rep Fouad Bougrine said: "Staff have to run around like crazy to get the job done. Unfortunately that's not sustainable.

"For two hours, baggage handlers will do what they are contracted to do, but nothing more. As we are under-staffed, this will cause delays."

Swissport handles baggage for many companies at Brussels Airport, including Brussels Airlines, Aer Lingus, Alitalia, Lufthansa, Ryanair and Thomas Cook.

About 80,000 passengers are due to travel through Brussels Airport on Tuesday. Flights on airlines handled by Aviapartner are unaffected by the strike.

The airport recommends that passengers arrive at the terminal with plenty of time to spare.