Expect more delays and security checks if you're traveling in Europe

Planes, trains, metro and bus services across Europe have been affected after the Brussels attacks.
 By 
Cailey Rizzo
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

UPDATED, 5:25 p.m. ET

After terror attacks in Brussels targeted the city's airport and metro system on Tuesday, travel in the region has been snarled.

All flights to and from Brussels Airport are cancelled or diverted. The airport will remain closed through Wednesday.


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Meanwhile, all metro stations in the city have been closed.

Belgian officials told people in Brussels to stay where they were after the attacks. For those in the area in need of transportation, people are rallying around the hashtag #JeVeuxAider to offer carpooling services.

Meanwhile, the UK is advising its citizens not to travel to Brussels. "The Belgian authorities are currently advising against travel to Brussels," the UK's foreign office said Tuesday. "You are advised to follow the instructions of the Belgian security authorities."

Here are more details on transportation in the region, and what you can do:

Flights

All air travel to and from Brussels Zaventem Airport has been suspended through Wednesday. Flights that were already en route to Brussels were rerouted. Most others are canceled.




Charleroi, Brussels' smaller airport, is still operating, but with heightened security, delays and cancellations. The airport suggests that travelers arrive at least four hours before their scheduled departure.

Airports in Paris, London, Prague, Amsterdam and Moscow have all reported heightened security today.

According to FlightAware, Paris, Geneva and London airports are experiencing the highest percentages of delays and cancellations in Europe (besides Brussels). However, less than 10% of flights from these airports have been affected.

Trains

Some train service in Europe has been limited, and trains in Belgium are severely impacted. Eurostar, which runs trains to London through the Chunnel, canceled high-speed service to Brussels.


All train stations in Brussels were closed until at least 4 p.m. local time.

Three train stations -- Brussels Schuman, Brussels Luxembourg and Brussels Airport -- will remain closed until further notice.

The trains that are running are likely to be severely delayed due to inspections. 

Dutch officials are increasing security on the Netherlands' borders. Train service throughout the Netherlands is running limited.

Germany's train service, Deutsche Bahn, suspended service between Brussels and Frankfurt until further notice. 

Buses

Bus services throughout Europe are running, but with delays due to increased security checks.

What to do

Before changing any plans, travelers should check with their travel providers. Many airlines like Delta, Ryanair and Brussels Airlines are allowing passengers to rebook or get a refund on European travel.


The U.S. State Department urged Americans in Brussels to avoid public transportation, though the department did not issue any formal travel warnings or alerts.

The State Department's worldwide caution alert from March 3 is still in effect: "European authorities continue to warn of the possibility of attacks conducted by lone individuals inspired by extremist organizations that could occur with little to no warning. Extremists have targeted large sporting events, theatres, open markets, aviation services, transportation systems, and public venues where people congregate."

TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger is in Brussels for a previously scheduled meeting with European officials about security. The TSA has not yet weighed in publicly on the attacks.

Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.


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Cailey Rizzo

Cailey studied journalism at SUNY Purchase and french cinema & literature at Paris IV Sorbonne. She is a cynical optimist and Talking Heads karaoke enthusiast. Drop her a line @misscaileyanne

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