Brussels Airport pilots targeted in series of laser attacks

Multiple pilots flying into Brussels Airport were targeted by laser beams during the night of August 14 to 15. According to the Belgian air traffic control body, Skeyes, several pilots reported having lasers pointed at their faces between 21:45 and 02:45.

The incidents occurred near the district of Dilbeek, located west of Brussels. While the light beams did not compromise the safety of the landings or the passengers, the activity is considered a serious criminal offense in Belgium that endangers air traffic.

There is speculation regarding a potential link between these attacks and local discontent over noise pollution. Residents in the Dilbeek area have been involved in a dispute with the Belgian state regarding the RNP 07L flight path, which research suggests violates noise standards. However, no official link has been established. Local police conducted searches in the area but have struggled to identify suspects, with officials describing the search as looking for ‘a needle in a haystack.’

Laser incidents in Belgian airspace have seen a significant rise, with 169 reports recorded in 2025, marking an 80% increase over the previous year.