Flemish harbour pilots represented by the Professional Association of Pilots (BVL / Loodsenfront) have been observing a work-to-rule protest since October 5 in opposition to proposed federal pension reforms.
The action, which restricts pilot services strictly to 08:00–17:00, has caused significant disruption at Belgium’s main ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge.
The protest, described as indefinite, stems from dissatisfaction with planned changes to the second pillar of pilots’ pensions.
According to the union, benefits for younger pilots could drop from about €2,400 to €1,900 due to non-indexation.
A preliminary deal reached over the summer is, according to BVL, not being honored by the government.
Port of Antwerp–Bruges data show growing congestion. On October 10 at 07:00, Antwerp reported 90 vessels without a fixed schedule and 22 delayed, while Zeebrugge recorded 8 delays. On October 9, Antwerp had 85 unscheduled vessels and 5 delayed; on October 8, 54 were unscheduled and 34 delayed. Earlier updates indicated queues of 27 outgoing and 36 incoming vessels awaiting pilotage.
Maersk said in its customer advisory that traffic at both Antwerp and Zeebrugge remains affected and that the situation is expected to persist.
Belgium has around 300 maritime pilots guiding vessels through ports and constrained waterways such as the Scheldt. Flemish Ports Minister Annick De Ridder urged pilots to halt the action and return to negotiations, stating that a formal framework agreement is expected by the end of November.
The protest adds to broader logistical pressures in Northern Europe, where strikes in Rotterdam have already suspended some cargo operations. Extended disruptions at Antwerp–Bruges could amplify supply chain delays and prompt vessel rerouting to alternate ports.
The Port of Antwerp–Bruges is a merged port authority combining the operations of Antwerp and Zeebrugge since 2022. It functions as a public limited company under Flemish ownership and is one of Europe’s largest maritime hubs for container, chemical, and automotive cargo.
The Beroepsvereniging van Loodsen (BVL), also known as Loodsenfront, is a professional union representing maritime and inland pilots in Flanders. It negotiates with federal and regional authorities on issues related to employment, pensions, and safety standards.
