Brussels Airport has received an extension of its environmental permit, as announced by Flemish Minister for the Environment Zuhal Demir (N-VA). The current permit, which was granted in 2004, is set to expire on July 8. The decision was made after a favorable recommendation from the Regional Environmental Permit Committee (GOVC).
Minister Demir has imposed several conditions on the airport as part of the agreement. These include a reduction in seriously sleep-disrupting flights by 30 percent by 2032 and a limit of 240,000 flights per year by the same year. These conditions are aimed at striking a balance between the economic interests of the airport and the quality of life for those living in the surrounding area.
Arnaud Feist, CEO of Brussels Airport, emphasized the importance of expansion space for the airport to continue functioning as a key economic engine. Minister Demir stated that she aims to find a balance between prosperity and environmental impact. The decision to extend the permit with conditions was made to ensure that Zaventem Airport remains viable while also protecting the well-being of those living nearby.
Zaventem Airport plays an important role in driving economic growth in Belgium, providing employment for over 64,000 people directly and indirectly through its operations. Minister Demir highlighted this fact while also emphasizing that it’s crucial not to restrict the purchasing power of these families or hinder their ability to create wealth for Flanders. At the same time, she called on businesses operating near Zaventem Airport to collaborate towards maintaining this delicate balance between economic interests and quality of life.
