Flanders Pledges Airport Subsidies Until 2039 Amid Financial Agreement

The Flemish region has committed to subsidizing its regional airports until October 2039, following an agreement between Flemish Minister of Mobility Annick De Ridder and French airport operator Egis. The deal, which was inadvertently released on the Parliament's intranet, resolves a long-standing financial dispute just before the executive's decision to cut airport subsidies.

Under the agreement, Egis, the operator of Deurne and Ostend airports, will drop its claim for 14.83 million euros in unpaid subsidies from Flanders. In return, Flanders will drop its claim for 12.1 million euros owed by Egis. This mutual renunciation of claims aims to settle the financial disagreements between the parties.

Flanders' commitment extends to continuing subsidies for Egis until October 26, 2039, ensuring the airports remain operational. In exchange, Egis has agreed to pay two outstanding invoices dating back to 2025 before January 1, 2028, and to settle all future invoices on time starting in 2026.

Additionally, the Flemish government will fund renovations for the aircraft parking apron at Deurne airport and assume other costs related to soil remediation. Minister De Ridder defended the decision, stating the airport is "crucial for Antwerp and its port," rejecting characterizations of a "blank check."

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crucial for Antwerp and its port