Brussels-National Airport Federal Mediator Dismissed

Philippe Touwaide has been dismissed from his position as the federal ombudsman for Brussels-National Airport. The decision was communicated to Touwaide via a registered letter on April 13, 2026.

The dismissal follows a judicial ruling on April 1, 2026, in which the Brussels correctional court sentenced Touwaide to one year of firm imprisonment. The conviction was based on charges of harassment directed at Arnaud Feist, the CEO of the airport.

Administrative Process and Approval

The SPF Mobilité recommended the termination of Touwaide’s employment following the court’s sentencing on April 1. This recommendation was subsequently approved by the Minister of Mobility, Jean-Luc Crucke.

At the time the dismissal was finalized, Touwaide had already been suspended from his duties for a period of one month.

Legal History and Allegations

This represents not the first legal conflict involving the former ombudsman and airport leadership. In 2024, Touwaide was convicted of defamation and harassment involving executives at Brussels Airport.

Further scrutiny emerged on March 11, 2026, when reports indicated that Touwaide was facing allegations regarding conflicts of interest, which coincided with the start of his one-month suspension.

Despite these legal challenges, Touwaide has been recognized as a leading expert on the issues of aircraft noise and overflight patterns related to Brussels Airport.

Touwaide has filed an appeal against the April 1 conviction.