As the Easter holidays approach, Brussels Airport and Brussels Airlines are preparing to welcome a significant influx of travellers. Brussels Airport expects to see over 1.2 million passengers during the holiday period, marking an increase of nearly 100,000 compared to 2024. The busiest day is anticipated to be Friday, April 18, with around 77,500 passengers, including 40,000 arrivals.
The airport has introduced several new features to enhance the travel experience. The new concept store “The Wave” in Pier A showcases Belgian design from brands like Clio, Colorush, and June 21 Jewelry. Additionally, a new Victoria’s Secret shop has opened in the same pier. Passengers can also enjoy a drink or a bite to eat at Bar Festiv, where they have the chance to win tickets for summer festivals. For travellers with pets, a new animal relief area has been opened in Pier B3.
New fleet capacity for Brussels Airlines
Brussels Airlines is also looking forward to large numbers, with approximately 1 million passengers expected throughout the Easter and spring holidays. The airline has increased its capacity by 20% compared to the same period in 2024. This growth is supported by a growing fleet that now includes an extra long-haul Airbus 330 and an additional Airbus 320 for its European network. The Belgian carrier has also contracted a wet lease of four Airbus 220 aircraft, which will operate on behalf of the airline until the end of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) summer season.
The airline’s expanded capacity allows it to enhance its network by adding new destinations and increasing frequencies on existing routes. Notably, it will add Funchal, Madeira to its network on the first day of the holiday period. The top five destinations for Belgian travellers this Easter and spring are Malaga, Barcelona, Rome, Lisbon, and Madrid.
Sunshine destinations remain popular
Greet Vandebos, Head of Leisure Sales at Brussels Airlines, highlighted the demand for sunshine destinations during the Easter holidays. For those still looking for a last-minute getaway, Vandebos recommends checking destinations such as Berlin, Copenhagen, or Prague, where there is still some availability. Vandebos also hailed Funchal as “a destination renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty.”
With around 180 direct connections, travellers have a wide range of options during Easter. City trips in Europe and to sun destinations are very popular during this time, as well as trips to the US and Asia. Brussels Airport advises travellers to arrive at the airport in time, download the airport app for the latest flight information, and be mindful of restrictions for liquids in hand baggage.
