The Socialist Party has voiced concern over the Flemish Region’s "takeover" of Brussels Zaventem Airport, stating it threatens the federal balance.
“This move is not random; it’s part of a deliberate political strategy aiming to progressively weaken federal instruments in favour of a more dominant Flemish regional power,” said MP Ridouane Chahid. “Brussels Airport, though located in the Flemish Region, serves as a national – even international – hub and should have remained a lever of balance and cooperation between the regions. It now symbolises federal disengagement and institutional withdrawal.”
Socialists are questioning “where the Francophone voices are within the federal government.”
“This is not merely an economic matter; it’s a clear political warning that Flanders is advancing its position, strengthening its tools, and expanding its influence while Francophones look the other way,” Mr Chahid noted.
On Friday, the Flemish government announced a €2.77 billion investment through its participation company PMV to acquire a 39% stake in Brussels Airport. The federal government holds a 25% stake via the Federal Holding and Investment Company (SFPI).
