Explosions at Brussels Airport, 11 feared dead
22 / 03 / 2016
Brussels Airport has been closed to operations after two explosions in the Belgian hub’s passenger terminal left at least 11 people dead and many more injured.
On its social media site, the airport authority said: "All airport operations have been suspended until further notice. Follow the information on our website. Don’t come to the airport – airport is being evacuated. Avoid the airport area. Flights have been cancelled."
A further explosion killed up to 20 people at the Maelbeek metro station in the Belgian capital.
Brussels Airport CEO Arnaud Feist has issued the following statement: “On behalf of the entire airport community, I would like to extend our warmest condolences to the family and friends of the victims of these cowardly and heinous acts.
"I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the emergency and rescue services, passengers and staff for their compassion, solidarity and help. This is without doubt the blackest day in the history of Brussels Airport.”
A number of airlines have issued statements in response to the events in Brussels.
American Airlines extended its "deepest sympathies and condolences" to those affected by the tragic events in Brussels earlier today.
It added: "American is taking care of employees and customers at Brussels Airport. At this time, all of our airport employees and crew members are safe and accounted for with no reported injuries. American Airlines check-in operates at Row 8 of the departure hall, and the explosions did not occur at Row 8."
United Airlines said: "The United family is deeply saddened by the tragedies in Brussels earlier today, and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. The safety of our customers and crew remains our top priority, and all of our employees are safe and accounted for at this time."
Delta Air Lines chief executive Ed Bastian said: "The thoughts and prayers of the entire Delta family are with the people of Brussels today.
"As part of running a global airline, our teams are in constant contact with authorities in Brussels and were able to immediately go into action this morning on behalf of our employees and customers. We’re grateful to our employees in the operation who are supporting re-accommodations and diversions."
