Busy autumn ahead for Brussels Airport

Brussels Airport is expecting more than 1.7 million passengers during the autumn holidays, which span several weeks due to the difference in the school calendars between the French-speaking and Dutch-speaking communities.

“Traditional winter destinations remain very popular, but passengers are also clearly looking for sunny beach vacations during the cold winter months,” the airport said, noting that this year’s projected figures cannot easily be compared to previous seasons.

“As the holidays in both language communities do not coincide this year, unlike last year, it’s difficult to make a comparison with 2025,” the airport said.

In the French-speaking education system, the holidays are scheduled from Monday 19 October to Sunday 1 November. In the Dutch-speaking education system, the holidays will run from Monday 2 to Sunday 8 November. 

Friday 16 October was the busiest day of the period, with an estimated 82,000 passengers. Top destinations include Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands. 

The Scandinavian region, meanwhile, remains very popular with winter sports enthusiasts. 

Brussels Airport has struggled this year with implementing the new European Entry/Exit System (EES), resulting in hours-long waits for non-European passengers at times. 

It therefore urges travellers to plan well for the busy autumn season.

“The airport recommends that passengers arrive two hours ahead of their scheduled departure time for flights within the Schengen area and three hours for non-Schengen flights,” it said.

“Brussels Airport is easily accessible by public transport, but those coming by car can reserve a parking space online in advance. 

"Finally, travellers are advised to review all hand luggage rules before they leave for the airport so that the security screening process can run efficiently."