Flemish Government Advances Noise Reduction Plan for Brussels Airport

The Flemish Government, led by Environment Minister Jo Brouns, has begun a new approach to curb aircraft noise around Brussels Airport. A longlist of 33 measure clusters, compiled from more than 300 proposals by airlines, local authorities, NGOs and residents, will be screened for safety, legal feasibility and effectiveness before a shortlist is created. The aim is to cut the number of people severely affected by noise and sleep disturbance by 30 % by 2032 compared with 2019. This process follows a court ruling that voided the airport’s 2024 environmental licence, which must be replaced by 30 June 2029.

Local municipalities—including Aarschot, Leuven and Rotselaar—are urging residents to file complaints to the Airport Mediation service, seeking the removal of the “Leuven Rechtdoor” flight path that has contributed to the region becoming Belgium’s most overflown area, with over 100 000 flights annually.