‘Bankrupt’ Belgian Airport Kept Aloft ‘to Serve Private Jets’

‘Bankrupt’ Belgian airport kept aloft ‘to serve private jets’

Belgium’s Antwerp airport, known locally as Deurne Airport, has been labelled “bankrupt in all but name” and should close, according to some green activists.

Public subsidies for ailing Antwerp Airport called into question

A small international Belgian airport is attracting attention again due to its financial struggles and the amount of public money it receives to stay afloat – subsidies the Belgian government insists are justified, despite the lack of a legal agreement and calls for an urgent audit from critics. Antwerp Airport, just five kilometres from the city in Deurne, is a small international hub operating charter, scheduled, and business flights, and is h…

Without fresh Flemish millions Antwerp Airport faces bankruptcy

Despite millions in aid from Flanders and the federal government, totaling 13,5 million euros, Antwerp Airport’s financial situation is so dire that the so-called alarm bell procedure is in effect. This means that any creditor can ask the court to dissolve the company. Nevertheless, for Flemish Minister of Mobility Annick De Ridder (N-VA), who is from Antwerp, as is Prime Minister Bart De Wever (N-VA), the Flemish support is not up for discussio…