The tram connecting Brussels to Zaventem Airport could start operating as early as 2028, as reported by Belgian news outlet DHnet. While the permit for the Brussels section is still pending, Flanders has submitted its plans for the extension of tram line 62 to the airport.
The airport tram or Luchthaventram will take take passengers from Brussels North to Zaventem Airport in 30 minutes. This convenient 12 km long streetcar line starts at Avenue Leopold III and joins the existing streetcar network. Since the tram always has priority in traffic, it is faster and more reliable than the bus. According to DH, the new airport tram could attract up to 10,000 passengers a day.
According to Werken aan de ring, the Luchthaventram will run as an extension of the existing streetcar lines with a terminus at NATO in Evere. Streetcar stops complement the 2 local train stations (Diegem and Zaventem) in order to make the economic activity areas of the region more accessible. The tram will further improve the accessibility of the business areas between Brussels and the airport by combining with other means of transport:
- A new bicycle route completes the 2 existing bicycle routes. The existing infrastructure will be improved and completed, including new crossing points over the A201.
- All stops will have bicycle stations and will provide for shared mobility (shared bikes, shared cars) so that you can easily combine them.
- Stops will also be as walkable as possible, including walkways, improved sidewalks and convenient locations.
- Passengers will also be able to take a bus connection at the various streetcar stops.
The proposal for the development of the Luchthaventram was approved on 9th of June 2021. The concept includes the necessary adaptations to the local road network and surface and underground bicycle and pedestrian crossings on the A201. Works are expected to begin in 2024.
