The blasts scene at Brussels Zaventem Airport. [Photo: cnr.cn]

BRUSSELS, March 22 -- Two explosions were heard at Brussels Zaventem airport and another explosion was also reported at Maelbeek metro station which was around the European Union area, Belgian media reported.

At least 17 people were dead and several were wounded, local media said.

The metro stations were closed and passengers were evacuated, people were asked to keep away from the metro station by staff.

Two explosions were heard shortly before 8 a.m. local time, Belgium's RTBF quoted witnesses as reporting.

"Due to two explosions at Brussels Airport this morning, March 22nd, the airport is closed until further notice," Brussels airlines announced at its official website.

The airport's departure hall was damaged heavily, one witness told Xinhua.