Brussels Airport is moving into summer mode: more than 5.1 million passengers expected, up 5%

Summer is fast approaching, and with it, the school holidays begin: from 1 July for Dutch-speaking schools, and 5 July for French-speaking schools. Like every year, Brussels Airport expects heavy passenger traffic, with more than 5.1 million passengers expected in July and August. What’s in store: 180 direct destinations ready for take-off, new features to discover in the terminal and online, and a holiday atmosphere already in the air. And to start the summer off on the right foot, Brussels Airport is relying on enhanced coordination with its partners to ensure a smooth and pleasant travel experience for passengers.

Tuesday 1 July, the start of the holidays in Dutch-speaking schools, will officially kick off the summer holidays. During July and August, Brussels Airport will welcome over 5.1 million passengers, representing a 5% increase compared to the same period last year. The busiest day of the summer vacation will be 28 July, with nearly 93,000 passengers.

The last weekend of June promises to be especially busy, with 90,000 passengers expected on Friday, 27 June.

A solid network: classic sun destinations and exciting new routes

With more than 1,800 flights departing each week and 180 direct destinations, Brussels Airport once again offers a wide range of possibilities for getting away this summer. Unsurprisingly, the sun-soaked favourites remain popular: Spain, Türkiye, Greece, Italy and Morocco top the list of the most popular destinations, followed closely by Portugal, Tunisia, Egypt and Croatia. And those who prefer far-away destinations, will also find what they're looking for with connections to Curaçao, Bangkok, and Singapore, among other destinations.

Among the notable new features of this season: Delta Air Lines has been flying to Atlanta since 11 June, while Cathay Pacific will launch a direct route between Brussels and Hong Kong on 4 August. New connections which further strengthen Brussels Airport’s position as an intercontinental hub.

In addition, the arrival of an 11th long-haul aircraft at Brussels Airlines will allow for more frequent flights to Africa.

From check-in to boarding, everything is in place for a peaceful and pleasant journey

Everything is ready to welcome holidaymakers in the best possible conditions. In collaboration with its many partners, Brussels Airport has taken all the necessary measures to cope with the summer rush. Moreover, a summer plan was presented on 16 June by Interior Minister Bernard Quintin. This plan aims to increase the number of Federal Police staff in order to limit waiting times at border controls and ensure smooth passage for all travellers.

In the terminal, summer promises to be as delicious as it is festive. In Pier A, Bar Festiv offers a relaxed atmosphere with nachos, nuggets or wraps to share, while a brand-new Burger King has recently opened its doors in Pier B. Families will be delighted to find the fully renovated Kids Play & Care area in Pier A, featuring Smurf-themed play areas, baby-care facilities and comfortable seating for breastfeeding mothers.

A new information desk is also available in the departures hall: our agents welcome passengers every day there from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. to answer their questions about flights, airport services or travel tips. And for those who like to mark the occasion before take-off, a large installation with the letters "Brussels Airport" now sits on the Curb (outside, in front of the departures hall), right next to a Dunkin' Donuts pop-up, ideal for a coffee-to-go. In July, an exclusive Tomorrowland pop-up will bring a festival atmosphere to Pier A.

To travel with peace of mind, passengers are encouraged to prepare for their departure: reserve their parking space in advance, use public transport if possible, and check the rules regarding hand luggage. Practical new feature: using the BRUce chatbot, it is now possible to take a photo of an item to know at a glance whether it complies with the rules for hand luggage. A small gesture to smoothly get you through security screening ... so you can start your vacation with complete peace of mind.