First Frontex officers deployed at Brussels Airport

Starting today, Brussels Airport will receive European support to assist with return operations. Eight officers from Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, are beginning their assignments at Zaventem Airport.

“This reinforcement is aimed at increasing the number of forced returns by air. With Frontex on board, Belgium can step up its return policy,” said Anneleen Van Bossuyt, Minister for Asylum and Migration.

“Anyone staying illegally in Belgium must return as soon as possible”

In April, the Council of Ministers approved a royal decree allowing Frontex officers to operate in Belgium. Until recently, return operations could only be carried out in the presence of the Belgian aviation police.

Minister Van Bossuyt welcomed the development: “Anyone staying illegally in Belgium must return as soon as possible. With Frontex’s support, we’re speeding up the pace of returns.”

Reinforcement for the aviation police

The Frontex officers bring experience from similar assignments in other EU member states, making them immediately operational. They will work closely with the Belgian aviation police, expanding the joint pool of return escorts.