The Council for Permit Disputes has revoked Brussels Airport’s environmental permit over a breach of mandatory EU consultation procedures. The Flemish government has until July 2029 to grant a new permit. Until then, the airport may continue to operate, so there will be no impact on air traffic.
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Brussels Airport’s environmental permit revoked over breach of consultation rules
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The previous environmental permit was valid until 8 July 2024. Operator Brussels Airport Company (BAC) applied for a new permit from the Flemish government, as it is located in the Flemish municipality of Zaventem.
The permit was granted in March 2024 and was intended to balance economic and environmental concerns. BAC had to comply with stricter environmental regulations, including measures to reduce noise pollution. The number of aircraft allowed to take off and land each year must be limited to 240,000 by 2032, and weekend night flights had to be significantly reduced.
The Walloon Region, the Brussels-Capital Region and Brussels Airlines all lodged appeals. In total, the Council for Permit Disputes received 21 appeals against the permit. BAC lodged an appeal against the financial burden imposed by the permit, not against the permit itself.
Brussels Airlines believes the stricter environmental measures disadvantage the airport. It points to European law, which states that operating restrictions should only be a last resort.
The Flemish government should first have followed the consultation process known as the balanced approach, according to the council.
The balanced approach is a mandatory consultation process within the EU for addressing aircraft noise at airports. It requires member states to consider a range of measures to mitigate noise before resorting to operating restrictions.
I remain committed to a future-oriented airport that is in balance with its environment and in line with European rules
The council has therefore revoked the permit. However, it allows the airport to continue operating until 2029, so there will be no impact on air traffic.
Flemish Environment minister Jo Brouns of CD&V said he was seeking “a balance between quality of life and economic activities”.
He acknowledges that Brussels Airport is of great importance for Belgium’s international accessibility and the Flemish economy, but says the liveability of the surrounding area and the well-being of local residents must also be safeguarded.
A consultation procedure has been launched. This involves research, public consultation and dialogue to identify measures to reduce noise pollution.
“We are now rolling out the procedure,” said Brouns. “I remain committed to a future-oriented airport that is in balance with its environment and in line with European rules.”
Environmental organisation Bond Beter Leefmilieu is satisfied with the council’s decision. “We are pleased that the operation of the airport is back on the political radar, but we had hoped that the council would also address the substantive arguments,” said spokesperson Benjamin Clarysse.
“The ultimate goal is a well-founded and future-proof permit, with watertight guarantees in terms of health, climate and the environment. Simply dusting off the existing permit would be inappropriate.”
