Fireworks near the airport? Only with permission!

We agree, setting off fireworks to mark the start of the New year is a great tradition. Only, near an airport, it is forbidden. Let us explain why.

As 2025 draws to a close, we would like to remind everyone of an important safety rule: setting off fireworks in the vicinity of the airport is prohibited without permission.

Everywhere, Christmas lights illuminate our streets and create a warm atmosphere. And what could be more fun than setting off fireworks to welcome the New Year? However, for aircraft flying at low altitude over the  neighbouring communities of the airport, these can be extremely dangerous. Take-off and landing are the most critical phases of a flight, so it is essential that nothing comes in an aircraft’s path.

Why are fireworks so dangerous for planes?

• Unpredictable trajectories: the rockets can suddenly change direction and skim past aircraft
• Smoke and particulate matter: limit visibility during take-off and landing
• Fire hazard due to explosive substances: one mistake can lead to a serious incident.

⚖️ What does the law say?

In neighbouring municipalities including Zaventem, Steenokkerzeel, Machelen and Kortenberg, fireworks are prohibited without permission from the mayor. For the extensive safety zone around Brussels Airport – an area of approximately 20 km around the airport, from parts of Brussels to Mechelen and Leuven – permission is also required from the civil aviation authority DGLV, the federal agency that oversees aviation safety.

👩‍⚖️What if you’re caught setting off fireworks without permission?

• You will receive a GAS fine.
• You run the risk of criminal prosecution with heavy fines and even imprisonment for serious offences.

More details are available on the websites of your municipality and the federal government: Afschieten van vuurwerk | Mobiliteit (Dutch) or Feux d'artifice | Mobilité (FR).

In short: No permission? Then don’t! This way, we keep the transition into the New Year safe and pleasant for everyone, both on the ground and in the air!

Season’s Greetings and Happy New Year!