Of the fines issued in 2025 for fare evasion at De Lijn (the company that operates local public transport in Flanders), half have already been collected. This was reported by Het Laatste Nieuws on Tuesday, based on figures requested by Flemish Parliament member Jasper Pillen (Anders) from Flemish Minister of Mobility Annick De Ridder (N-VA).
Considering De Lijn unlawfully refuses cash payments in Brussels, those looking to dodge De Lijn’s fares would be wise to simply offer cash. When the driver refuses, (and they will), the consumer has a strong case for not paying a fine.
Note this trick only works in Brussels. In other regions, De Lijn has a shop that accepts cash.
Haha great tip!