Weekly Logistics Briefing Key logistics updates for the week
(Week 3 of October 2025)

A pilot strike initiated by the Professional Association of Pilots (BVL/Loodsenfront) on October 5, is causing delays at Antwerp and Zeebrugge ports. The strike is a response to dissatisfaction with recent federal pension reforms. Flemish pilotage services are only operational during office hours, leading to significant delays in vessel arrivals and departures.

Workers at Incheon International Airport have put a hold on a 10-day strike, warning of an indefinite strike resumption on the 25th. The strike was conducted to demand better working conditions, including a shift system change and safety measures. They require transitioning from a three-team, two-shift system to a four-team, two-shift system and addressing employee disadvantages.

One of the largest ports in Europe, the port of Rotterdam, is facing major congestion due to workers strike. As a result, 22 container ships are waiting to enter the harbor. Negotiations to resolve the strike are expected to begin on Monday.

American Airlines experienced over 1,000 flight delays over the weekend due to widespread disruptions and a mid-air turnaround incident. The U.S. government shutdown has reduced air traffic control staffing, worsening the situation and causing delays across several major airports, including Charlotte Douglas, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Miami International. Other airlines like Delta, United, and Southwest also faced significant delays and cancellations.

Thousands of passengers are stranded in China as more than 70 flights have been cancelled across multiple airports. Affected airports include Shenzhen Bao'an Intl, Shanghai Hongqiao Intl, Beijing Daxing International, and others. This has impacted destinations such as Xi'an Xianyang, Guangzhou Baiyun, and Chengdu Shuangliu among others. The disruptions are due to adverse weather conditions, technical issues, and operational constraints. Airlines such as China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, United Airlines, and Air China have been affected.