Protests could force EU leaders to fly closer to the common man

There is a raft of helicopters at the ready to transport EU leaders to their summit today if the road from the airport is blocked due to a general strike by Belgian unions.

They are protesting some of the austerity measures put in place by their new government.

The biggest effect will be on public transport. Normally, protesters are kept well out of sight of ministers and leaders attending EU events. Usually, their jets land at the military airport and their cars are escorted by police sirens and outriders.