Court rules against Brussels Airport's new environmental permit

Brussels Airport's environmental permit has been annulled after a legal challenge. The Flemish Council for Permit Disputes found that the permit did not comply with European law, which considers the concerns raised by Brussels Airlines and other stakeholders. The Flemish government must issue a revised permit by June 2029 that aligns with EU requirements. In the meantime, airport operations will continue under the annulled authorization.

The contentious environmental permit, issued in March 2024, aimed to limit the airport’s impact on nearby communities. It included a cap of 240,000 annual flight movements by 2032 and a 30% reduction in night-time noise by 2030. These restrictions led to 21 appeals from airlines and local governments, arguing they were overly restrictive.

Brussels Airlines contested the permit, claiming it ignored the EU’s "balanced approach," which requires exploring alternatives like quieter aircraft before imposing flight restrictions. Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO of Brussels Airlines, stated: “We welcome the ruling on the environmental permit for Brussels Airport. We’re committed to working closely with the Flemish government to help shape a new permit that works for everyone — protecting not only the connectivity for Belgians but also local communities and their jobs.”