Road vignette in 2027, Ryanair changes & more
Starting May 1, 2027, Belgium plans to introduce a mandatory digital road vignette for cars, light commercial vehicles, and motorhomes. This new system will make Belgium the eighth European country to impose such a tax on motorists traveling within its territory.
In the aviation sector, Ryanair has confirmed the removal of five aircraft based at Charleroi Airport, resulting in a reduction of two million seats in its flight schedule in Belgium. This decision follows the failure of negotiations regarding a social compromise within the company.
Furthermore, the federal government has adopted a roadmap aimed at the total liberalization of the Belgian rail network by 2033. This reform provides for the opening of domestic traffic to competition, thereby changing the current organization of national rail transport.
Regarding safety, several incidents have marked Belgian beaches recently. Three boys were rescued from drowning in Ostend, and a 14-year-old teenager had to be resuscitated after being buried under sand in De Haan. Authorities are reminding the public of the need for caution during seaside activities.
Finally, concerning public finances, the annual cost of the Belgian monarchy amounts to 44 million euros, or approximately 3.75 euros per inhabitant. A poll indicates that a large portion of the population believes these expenses should be reduced.
Find more news, including Belgian sporting achievements in the Tour de France and judicial news items, in the News section of your application.