Inquiry launched into aggression and harassment claims at Brussels Airlines

A full inquiry has been launched to investigate complaints of aggression and intimidation at Belgium’s national airline company Brussels Airlines.

Around ten complaints have been submitted by members of the firm’s cabin crew, notably for sexual harassment. According to Belgium’s main workers’ union the CNE (Centre National des Employés et des Cadres du secteur privé) inappropriate behaviour, including cronyism and serious harassment, has taken place over several years.

“This thing that was covered up for years in the heart of the business is finally being revealed,” said the CNE’s permanent secretary Didier Lebbe. “Tongues are wagging. And the bosses are finally taking the problem seriously.”

Indeed, the company’s spokesperson Wencke Lemmes-Pireaux, replied in writing: “The company is carrying out a thorough survey into the affair and will take all the necessary measures in relation to the victims and employees concerned. Brussels Airlines is committed to maintaining a positive work environment.”

Following a preliminary inquiry including interviews with the people involved, it became clear the allegations were so serious that a further, “more comprehensive and objective” investigation was necessary, Brussels Airlines said in an internal note seen by Belgian news agency Belga.

The airline’s parent company Lufthansa will take charge of the inquiry, so that no Brussels Airlines personnel can influence its findings. The Belgian firm is encouraging anyone to speak out if they have been victim to any inappropriate behaviour at work. And it says that the inquiry process will be completely confidential.

The airline bosses also say workers concerned will be “temporarily suspended from their job” to ensure a neutral inquiry, underlining this was not a punitive measure.