Skip to navigation | Skip to main content | Skip to footer
Menu
Search the University of Manchester siteSearch Menu StaffNet

Belgium Travel Advice

23 Mar 2016

Advice for University colleagues travelling to or through Brussels

Following the terrorist bombings in Brussels yesterday, there are significant challenges for travellers to, or through, Brussels.

The situation is fluid and you should refer to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website for the latest advice:

The Belgian threat level is currently Level 4 – a serious and imminent threat. You should remain alert and vigilant, stay away from crowded places, and follow the instructions of the Belgian authorities.

For more information, visit:

The explosions on Tuesday, 22 March 2016 were at Zaventem International Airport and Maalbeek station in Brussels.  The airport is currently closed (Wednesday, 23 March).  Eurostar is operating a limited service to Brussels.

For further details, visit:

Public transport in Brussels is now operating.

If you are travelling to, or through, Brussels on University business then you need to do the following (until further notice):

  • Book via the Egencia travel management system wherever possible
  • Ensure that you have a proper risk assessment in place. The Belgian threat level is currently Level 4 – a serious and imminent threat. Your local School Safety Advisor or equivalent can assist here.
  • Secure approval from your Head of School and Vice-President & Dean ahead of travel

Booking via the Egencia system gives us a level of information about you and your journey that makes it possible for us to contact you in the event of a problem.  We were able to ascertain the safety of all University staff and students in Brussels within a couple of hours yesterday.  That is potentially important information for your families, colleagues, the University and the authorities.