Two Belgian airports failed an explosives detection test

The Belgian airports of Charleroi (Brussels South) and Zaventem (Brussels Airport) failed a recent explosives detection test. Adjustments are already being implemented.

Firstly, Charleroi Airport (BSCA) was put under scrutiny. The Belgian press revealed that on two occasions, BSCA security services failed to detect explosives – thankfully fake – hidden in luggage. These were inspections in line with legislation carried out in February 2025 to check the effectiveness of security service operations. In fact, according to RTBF, less than half of the ten powder packets were detected. Since then, the airport has increased controls for checked luggage. Moreover, "corrective" actions have been implemented with the personnel of the concerned contractor.

The same applies for country's other main airport in Zaventem. This airport underwent a similar inspection on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. And there too, it seems that the pseudo-explosives slipped through the net... These failures are partially likely due to new inspection procedures, making it more difficult to detect hidden "explosives" during these checks. For its part, the airports' contractor assures that passenger safety is ensured and remains its priority.

(MH with Olivier Duquesne – Source: RTBF – Picture: © picture alliance / NurPhoto | Nicolas Economou)