More flight noise over eastern Brussels for next six weeks

Residents in the eastern suburbs of Brussels can expect increased flight noise nuisance for six weeks, starting next Monday.

The main 25-R runway at Brussels Airport will be closed for repair works from 13 July to 23 August, requiring a change to flight patterns.

Wind directions permitting, the diagonal runway - called 01/19 - will be used instead for most take-offs and landings.

As a result, most planes landing at Zaventem will approach the airport via Waterloo, Hoeilaart, Tervuren, the Woluwes and Kraainem.

This Thursday (9 July) will be a dry run, as the new flight pattern is in place for one day while preparations begin on the runway renovation.

During the day, Brussels Airport is operating at less than a third of its usual capacity, so the noise pollution should be limited.

However, night-time freight flights continue to operate as usual. "Night flight activity will cause considerable nuisance," warned Charles Sohet, from the Piste 01 campaign group.

Brussels Airport's flight noise mediator can be contacted seven days a week between 6.00 and midnight until 23 August. "It is important that we answer questions from residents," said mediator Philippe Touwaide.

More details about the route changes will be available shortly on the website: www.airportmediation.be