More than 720,000 passengers expected at Brussels Airport over autumn half-term break

In just a few days, school kids will be enjoying a week of well-deserved holidays. For many families, it’s a great opportunity to get away, whether it’s in search of some sun, or to discover new holiday destinations, either close to home or further afield. Brussels Airport is preparing to welcome some 720,000 passengers over the autumn half-term break. We’ll be extending a warm Belgian welcome, complete with new digital media designed to ensure our holidaymakers set off in relaxed holiday mode.

With autumn half-term break being the first holiday period after the long summer break, it’s a popular time to head off in search of the last of the European sunshine, or perhaps to venture to more far-flung destinations. Beach holidays or city breaks, the options are still very much open during this time of year. And Brussels Airport will see large number of passengers passing through on their way to various holiday destinations. The airport will welcome no fewer than 720,000 passengers – 2.7% more than in 2018 – over the 10-day holiday period (Friday 25 October to Sunday 3 November). The busiest day will be Friday 25 October, with 85,000 passengers expected, of whom 46,000 will be departing.

The top holiday destinations during the autumn half-term break are Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, Lisbon and London Heathrow.

For TUI, the most popular long-haul destinations are the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Tanzania and the Gambia. Overall, the top five destinations for the tour operator are Spain, Egypt, Turkey, Tunisia and Morocco.

Belgian Treasures

Kids and adults alike will again enjoy entertainment while at Brussels Airport. The entertainment showcases Belgium’s heritage and treasures. The theme ‘Belgian Treasures’, launched a few weeks ago at Brussels Airport, invites visitors to discover or rediscover Belgian specialities, artists, brands and symbols. In Pier A, decorated tables introduce passengers to the music of famous Belgian artists, window displays showcase Belgian brands, and passenger may run into (cardboard) cyclists. In Connector they will find an XL bag of fries and a chocolate Smurf statue... In short, countless opportunities to take a selfie. For music lovers, a saxophonist will be performing in the terminal during the evening of 25 October. Finally, many shops and restaurants will be running sales promotions during this period.

And we’ve not forgotten the kids. Brussels Airport will be opening the Family Lane again, decorated in a Smurf theme this time, to make it easier for families to clear security. We’ll also be handing out masks and colouring crayons. Over life-size Smurfs will also be making an appearance on some days: guaranteed to bring a smile to the kids’ faces! Our youngest flyers are sure to be excited to discover or rediscover Kids Corner, which opened in Pier A this summer, bringing together games, a food preparation area and baby changing facilities into one relaxing area.

In short, it’s going to be a packed week at Brussels Airport!

Advice for a hassle-free departure

Over the holiday season, the airport is going to be very crowded. Passengers are therefore advised to be well-prepared. With this in mind, Brussels Airport has introduced a few digital innovations for an improved customer experience. Visitors can now book a table at Black Pearls and at Amo, guaranteeing a table of your choice and priority service. It’s also possible to book entry to Brussels Airport’s Diamond Lounges (Piers A and B), where customers can enjoy a buffet and numerous facilities at a cost of 34 euros per person (or 39 if bought at the reception). Finally, the new Fast Lane Pass, also bookable at www.brusselsairport.be/services for 11 euros, guarantees that passengers will clear security in 5 minutes or under.

Additional advice:

• Download the Brussels Airport app on your smart phone. It's free, and provides practical information on your flight, restaurants and stores (with a discount coupon to boot), as well as parking.
• Be sure to arrive at the airport on time
• Decide where to park or be dropped off in advance: the drop-off, P1-P2-P3
• Reserve your parking spot in advance on the Interparking website
• To save time, check in on-line

One final piece of advice? The clocks go back on Sunday, so don’t forget to adjust your alarm clock, especially if you have an early flight.

You can find additional advice to ensure a hassle-free departure from Brussels Airport: https://www.brusselsairport.be/en/passengers/prepare-your-travel/departing-passenger