Belgian Coastguard Surveillance Flights
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A permit issue at Antwerp and Ostend airports could stop Belgian Coastguard surveillance flights as early as May 1. This dispute puts vital North Sea patrols, pollution tracking, and emergency response operations at risk.
Fuel Ban Sparks the Crisis | Belgian Coastguard Patrols
Airport operators want to ban Avgas 100LL, a leaded aviation fuel, to comply with environmental goals. However, the fuel is still allowed under current EU regulations. Despite this, the ban would ground the coastguard’s only aircraft, a Britten-Norman Islander (OO_MMM).
This plane plays a key role in maritime surveillance and pollution monitoring. Without it, Belgium’s coast would be left vulnerable to oil spills, illegal dumping, and other marine threats.
Delays Since 2018 Raise Concerns | Maritime Surveillance Belgium
The coastguard has asked the government to replace the aging aircraft since 2018, but no action has been taken. Officials say the failure to provide a modern alternative now threatens public safety.
“This goes beyond paperwork,” said one official. “We need to keep the coastline safe. We’ve waited long enough.”
No Flights, No Protection
If flights stop, the Belgian Coastguard will lose one of its most important tools. Patrols will stop. Pollution may go unnoticed. Emergency response times will increase.
Environmental experts are worried too. They warn that removing aerial surveillance could harm ecosystems, especially during spill events or extreme weather.
Law Misinterpreted?
The European Commission still permits Avgas 100LL, as long as operators follow lead emission rules. But Belgian airports have taken a stricter approach, banning it altogether. Aviation experts say this overreaction could do more harm than good. | Belgian Coastguard Surveillance Flights
Pieter Declercq, an aviation analyst, said,
“Regulations should support safety and sustainability. Sudden bans without alternatives create confusion and danger.”
What Needs to Happen
Stakeholders urge the government to act fast. Solutions include:
- A temporary exemption for coastguard operations
- Fast-tracking a modern aircraft purchase
- Clear guidance from the EU to prevent misinterpretation
The Belgian Ministry of Mobility has not released a formal response.
Time Running Out
Belgium must act quickly. The coastguard’s flights protect both people and nature. Without a deal, those flights could stop in just days.
One thing is clear: If nothing changes, Belgian Coastguard surveillance flights will be grounded, and the North Sea will lose its watchful eye.
The clock is ticking. If no agreement is reached before May 1, Belgian Coastguard surveillance flights could be grounded, and the ripple effect may reach far beyond Belgium’s borders. | EU Aviation Fuel Regulations | Environmental Policy EU Aviation | Belgian coastguard patrols
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