Baggage handlers at Brussels Airport have walked out on strike causing the cancellation of many flights at the property.

Joined by aircraft loading staff, baggage handlers are unhappy the airport will replace Aviapartner with Swissport in November.

The decision – which will come into force on November 1st - was announced yesterday, prompting a wildcat strike today.

“This morning we are looking at one in three or one in four flights cancelled,” an airport spokesman told Reuters.

Flightcare, which also operates at the airport, will retain its licence for the 2011-2018 period.

Aviapartner provides services for some 40 airlines, including Air France-KLM, British Airways, easyJet and United.