Flemish Minister Annick De Ridder Defends Controversial Regional Airport Funding Deal

Flemish Minister of Mobility Annick De Ridder defended a new financing agreement for Belgium’s regional airports, securing €96 million in subsidies for the 2025‑2029 period, a reduction from the €131 million allocated for 2020‑2024. She argued the funding supports airports that generate €190 million in added value and sustain about 2,700 jobs, and highlighted the shift of Antwerp Airport toward business aviation as beneficial for the port city.

Opposition parties challenged the minister’s claim that subsidies would fall by 27 percent, accusing her of using inconsistent accounting methods that mask the true level of support. Critics also pointed to a confidential settlement allowing French operator Egis to receive subsidies until 2039 despite negative advice from the Finance Inspectorate. De Ridder is scheduled to provide detailed explanations to the Flemish Parliament’s Mobility Committee on 10 September.