Brussels Airport’s Winning Streak: Expanding Routes and Embracing Sustainability

Brussels Airport (BRU), a key aviation hub in Europe, is celebrating a successful year marked by an expanded flight network and recognition for its efforts in the aviation industry. During the winter season, passengers at BRU have access to 135 direct destinations provided by 54 airlines, including the addition of new routes and two new airline partners.

The airport has welcomed Royal Jordanian, offering three weekly flights to Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport, and flynas, providing nonstop service thrice a week to Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport. Furthermore, Transavia has reinforced its presence at BRU by basing a third aircraft at the airport, allowing for increased flight frequencies.

Looking ahead to next year, Singapore Airlines has announced its return to BRU in April 2024, marking its first service to the airport in over two decades. The airline will operate four weekly flights from Singapore Changi Airport, further enhancing BRU’s connectivity.

BRU’s growth is underscored by its impressive passenger numbers. In November 2023, the airport handled 1.6 million passengers, a 10% increase compared to the same month in 2022. In the first 11 months of the year, BRU served more than 20 million passengers, surpassing the 17.5 million passengers during the same period in the previous year.

Léon Verhallen, Director of Aviation Development at BRU, highlighted the airport’s short-term goal of fully recovering pre-pandemic traffic levels by the end of 2025. In the long term, BRU has unveiled a strategic plan focusing on three core components: enhancing performance to provide a robust European and global network with efficient connections; diversifying into cargo, real estate, and leveraging AI in various projects; and committing to sustainability, as demonstrated by the initiation of the environmental permit renewal process.

BRU’s efforts were recognized at the 2023 Routes Awards, where it was named the winner in the 10-20 million passenger category. Verhallen expressed gratitude to the airlines that nominated BRU and emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving these milestones.

Brussels Airport’s expansion in routes, along with its strategic focus on sustainability and diversification, positions it as a forward-thinking player in the aviation industry. Its recognition at the Routes Awards reflects its commitment to excellence and innovation, making it a model for airports worldwide.