Gilkinet is a member of the Greens, while Weyts is with the nationalist New Flemish Alliance.
“I have complete empathy for the inconveniences suffered by people who are overflown wherever they live, in Flanders, Wallonia and Brussels,” Gilkinet added. “And that’s why I want to reduce the authorized noise volume for aircraft according to the time of day and provide for silent nights.”
According to Belgium’s Superior Health Council, some 160,000 people around the hub are at increased risk of exposure to excessive noise, which can lead to sleep disorders, learning difficulties, high blood pressure and depression.
The airport is located in the Flemish town of Zaventem, so the Flemish government is responsible for the environmental permit — which was renewed in March. Flight plans, however, are a national competence.
The Flemish municipalities around the airport are challenging the air routing plan, arguing it was revised without consulting the communities affected.
According to Weyts, a daily fine of €100,000 is “not inconceivable … since the federal government already has to pay €50,000 per week in penalties to some municipalities” as the result of another court ruling.