Brussels Airlines

Brussels Airlines is the flag carrier of Belgium, serving as a vital bridge between the "Capital of Europe" and the rest of the world. Operating from its home base at Brussels Airport, the airline is renowned for combining punctuality with a warm, distinctively Belgian hospitality that makes every journey memorable. As a proud member of the Lufthansa Group and the Star Alliance, it offers passengers a seamless global network while maintaining a unique identity, famously celebrated through its "Belgian Icons" aircraft liveries dedicated to national treasures like Tintin and The Smurfs.

Connecting Continents with Expertise
Brussels Airlines has established itself as a specialist in flights to and from Africa, offering extensive connections to the continent that are highly valued by business and leisure travelers alike. Its network also densely covers key European metropolises, including frequent services to cities like London, Berlin, Rome, and Madrid. For long-haul travelers, the airline provides connections to major North American hubs such as New York City and Chicago, ensuring a smooth transit experience through its compact and efficient hub.

A Focus on Guest Comfort
The airline positions itself as "the most personal airline," focusing on a service philosophy that puts the guest first. On intercontinental flights, passengers can choose from Economy, a comfortable Premium Economy, or a Business Class often described as a "boutique hotel in the air," featuring lie-flat beds and Belgian culinary delights. Even on shorter European hops to destinations like Nice, Copenhagen, or Prague, travelers can expect attentive service and modern cabin interiors.

Commitment to Quality and Safety
Safety and reliability are core pillars of Brussels Airlines' operations. Backed by the rigorous maintenance and safety standards of the Lufthansa Group, the airline operates a modern fleet primarily composed of Airbus aircraft. Its membership in the Star Alliance further guarantees a high standard of travel, allowing passengers to earn and redeem miles seamlessly across a global network of partner carriers.

Travelers based in the United Arab Emirates can easily manage their bookings or inquire about flight services through the airline's local representatives and digital platforms. Whether planning a trip or organizing special travel requirements via the Brussels hub, assistance is available to ensure all preparations are handled efficiently.

Official Website

For the most direct access to reservations, flight schedules, and online check-in features, the official website remains the primary resource.

• Website: www.brusselsairlines.com

Contact Information

Support in the region is facilitated through the Lufthansa Group network, ensuring that passengers in the UAE receive professional assistance for their travel needs.

• Customer Service (UAE): +971 600 595556
  Note: This number connects to the Lufthansa Group UAE Call Center, which handles inquiries for Brussels Airlines in the region.
• Service Hours: Daily, 24 hours (English support).
• Email: service.en@brusselsairlines.com
• Mobile App: Brussels Airlines (Available on App Store and Google Play)

Social Media

For quick updates or specific questions, the airline's official social media channels offer an alternative way to get in touch.

• Facebook: facebook.com/brusselsairlines
• X (Twitter): twitter.com/FlyingBrussels
• Instagram: instagram.com/flyingbrussels
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/brussels-airlines

Local Offices

While direct flight operations are managed centrally, sales and administrative inquiries within the UAE are handled by the group's local office.

• Dubai Office:
  Address: Lufthansa Group Sales Office, Dubai World Trade Center, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Emergency & Support

For urgent matters that require immediate attention outside of local business contexts, the central Service Centre in Belgium is available around the clock.

• International Support: +32 2 723 23 62
• Travelers are advised to check the "Contact" section on the official website for the most current operating hours and regional toll-free options.

Packing for your journey should be the start of your excitement, not a source of stress. Brussels Airlines offers a transparent and generous baggage policy designed to accommodate the needs of every traveler, whether you are flying light for a weekend city break or carrying extra luggage for a long-haul adventure. Understanding the allowances for your specific ticket type will ensure a smooth passage through the airport.

Carry-on Baggage Allowances
All passengers are entitled to bring at least one piece of hand luggage and one small personal accessory on board. The standard carry-on bag must not exceed the dimensions of 55 x 40 x 23 cm, ensuring it fits comfortably in the overhead compartments.

• Economy Class: Travelers can bring 1 carry-on bag along with a small personal item (such as a laptop bag or handbag), provided the combined weight of both items does not exceed 8kg.
• Business Class: Guests enjoy an increased allowance of 2 carry-on bags (each weighing up to 8kg) plus a personal accessory.

Small personal items should be stored under the seat in front of you to keep the cabin organized and the aisles clear.

Checked Baggage Limits
Your checked baggage allowance depends on your travel class and the fare option you selected during booking.

• Economy Light: Designed for short trips to cities like Munich or Milan, this fare usually includes carry-on luggage only. Checked bags can be added for a fee.
• Economy Standard: Typically includes 1 piece of checked luggage weighing up to 23kg.
• Business Class: Passengers can check in 2 pieces of luggage, with a generous weight limit of 32kg per bag.

For intercontinental flights to destinations in Africa or North America, allowances may vary, so it is always wise to check your specific ticket details.

Excess Baggage Fees
If your luggage exceeds the weight or size limits, or if you wish to check in more bags than your allowance permits, flat-rate fees will apply. These charges are generally lower if paid in advance online rather than at the airport counter. It is recommended to weigh your bags at home before departing for the airport to avoid unexpected costs.

Special Items: Sports and Music
Brussels Airlines welcomes passengers traveling with special equipment. Whether you are bringing ski gear for a winter trip to Geneva or a musical instrument for a concert tour, specific rules apply.

• Sports Equipment: Skis, snowboards, bicycles, and golf bags can often be transported as part of your free baggage allowance if they fit within the weight limits. If they exceed the allowance, a special sports equipment fee applies.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken as hand luggage. For larger instruments like a cello, you may need to book an extra seat or check it as special cargo.

Always register special baggage in advance through the Service Centre to guarantee space in the hold.

Restricted and Prohibited Items
Safety is paramount. Sharp objects, explosives, flammable substances, and lithium batteries (unless inside personal electronic devices in the cabin) are strictly prohibited in checked luggage. Liquids in hand luggage must follow the standard rule: containers of no more than 100ml, packed in a single transparent, re-sealable plastic bag with a capacity of up to 1 liter.

Tips for Efficient Packing
To make your journey as comfortable as possible, keep valuable items like travel documents, medication, and electronics in your carry-on. If you are connecting through major hubs like Frankfurt am Main or Vienna, ensure your baggage is sturdy and clearly labeled with your name and contact details inside and out. Utilizing packing cubes can help organize your belongings and maximize space, leaving room for souvenirs from your travels.

Traveling with a four-legged companion requires careful planning, and Brussels Airlines strives to make the journey as smooth as possible for both you and your pet. The airline permits cats and dogs to travel on board, either in the cabin or in the cargo hold, depending on their size and weight, ensuring they arrive safely at your destination.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)
Small pets can join you in the passenger cabin, allowing you to keep them close throughout the flight. This option is strictly regulated to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers.

• Carrier Dimensions: The maximum allowed size for the carrier is 55 x 40 x 23 cm. A soft-sided, leak-proof bag is highly recommended as it fits more easily under the seat.
• Weight Limit: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed Pets: Only cats and small dogs are permitted in the cabin.
• Restrictions: The animal must be able to stand, lie down, and turn around comfortably in its natural position. It must remain completely inside the closed bag for the entire duration of the flight.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)
For animals that exceed the cabin weight or size limits, travel in the air-conditioned cargo hold is available on most flights.

• Container Requirements: You must provide an IATA-compliant crate that is hard-shelled, escape-proof, and leak-proof. It must have ventilation on all four sides and separate food and water containers accessible from the outside.
• Weight and Size: There are no strict upper weight limits for the hold as long as the crate fits through the aircraft cargo door, but very large crates may require special handling.
• Temperature Restrictions: To protect your pet's health, transport may be refused if extreme heat or cold is forecast at departure, transfer, or arrival airports.
• Documentation: All forms must be attached securely to the crate.

As Cargo
In specific scenarios, pets must be shipped as air cargo rather than checked baggage.

• When Required: This is mandatory for very large animals, pets traveling unaccompanied, or when flying to countries with strict entry regulations (e.g., into the United Kingdom via London).
• Booking: This service is handled by a separate department, and arrangements often need to be made through a specialized animal shipper.

Required Documentation

Before heading to the airport, ensure you have the following paperwork ready to avoid boarding denial:

• Pet Passport: A valid EU Pet Passport or official veterinary documentation for non-EU travel.
• Microchip: The animal must be identified by a microchip (tattoo accepted if applied before July 2011).
• Health Certificate: A veterinary certificate of good health, typically issued within a few days of travel.
• Vaccinations: Proof of a valid anti-rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel).

Service Costs

Fees for transporting pets are charged per direction and vary based on the destination. Prices are subject to change.

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately €60 to €120, depending on whether the flight is domestic, European, or intercontinental.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Approximately €100 to €200 or more per crate, varying significantly by route and crate size.
• Note: Fees are usually paid at the check-in counter or Service Centre.

Preparation Tips

A little preparation goes a long way in reducing anxiety for your furry friend:

• Familiarization: Let your pet spend time in the travel crate days or weeks before the flight to make it feel like a safe space.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure to prevent air sickness, but ensure they are well-hydrated.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent mat and a familiar item, like a blanket or t-shirt with your scent, inside the carrier.
• No Sedation: Veterinarians and airlines generally advise against sedating pets as it can interfere with their breathing and temperature regulation at high altitudes.

Restrictions

Certain limitations apply to ensure the safety of specific animals:

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed dogs and cats (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, Persian cats) are often restricted from the cargo hold due to respiratory risks. They may only be allowed in the cabin or as special cargo.
• Prohibited Animals: Rodents, reptiles, and birds are generally not accepted in the cabin.
• Exceptions: Recognized Assistance Dogs (e.g., guide dogs) travel free of charge in the cabin, provided prior notification is given.

Important: Animal transport regulations are complex and subject to change. It is strongly recommended to contact Brussels Airlines or their Service Centre at least 48 hours in advance to confirm your booking and verify the latest requirements for your specific route.

Brussels Airlines participates in Miles & More, Europe's leading frequent flyer program, designed to reward loyal passengers with valuable privileges and seamless travel experiences. Whether you are a frequent business traveler or an occasional vacationer, this program allows you to earn miles and points across a vast network of airlines and partners, making every journey more rewarding.

Membership Tiers

The program is structured into four status levels. Under the simplified status system, frequent flyers achieve status by collecting Points and Qualifying Points rather than tracking complex flight distances.

• Member: The entry-level tier where you start earning Award Miles and Points immediately upon free registration.
• Frequent Traveller: Achieved by accumulating a set number of Points and Qualifying Points within a calendar year. Benefits include Business Class check-in, increased baggage allowances, and access to Business Lounges.
• Senator: Requires a higher threshold of Points and Qualifying Points. Members enjoy exclusive privileges such as access to Senator Lounges, priority baggage handling, and upgrade vouchers.
• HON Circle: The highest accolade for top-tier flyers, attainable solely by earning HON Circle Points on Business and First Class flights. Perks include limousine services, access to the First Class Terminal, and the highest priority assistance.

Earning Miles and Points

The Miles & More program distinguishes between the "currency" you spend and the "points" that determine your status.

• Award Miles: These are earned on every flight with Brussels Airlines, the Star Alliance, and other partner airlines. You can also collect them through daily activities like using co-branded credit cards, booking hotels, or renting cars. These miles are used for redemption.
• Points & Qualifying Points: Used exclusively to determine your status level. Points are earned on flights with all Star Alliance members, while Qualifying Points are specific to flights with the Lufthansa Group and selected partners.

Redeeming Miles

Your accumulated Award Miles can be exchanged for a wide variety of rewards, giving you flexibility in how you enjoy your benefits.

• Award Flights: Use miles to book flight tickets to destinations worldwide on Brussels Airlines and partner carriers.
• Upgrades: Enhance your travel experience by using miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class for more comfort and premium service.
• Partner Rewards: Redeem miles for hotel stays, car rentals, or exclusive merchandise from the Worldshop.
• Non-flight Options: Choose to donate your miles to charitable causes or exchange them for gift cards at selected retailers.

Alliance Membership

Brussels Airlines is a proud member of the Star Alliance, the world's largest global airline alliance.

• Global Network: Status benefits like lounge access and priority boarding are recognized by over 25 member airlines worldwide.
• Key Partners: Enjoy seamless connections and earning capabilities with major carriers such as United Airlines, Air Canada, and Singapore Airlines.

How to Join

Getting started with Miles & More is simple and completely free of charge.

• Register online via the official website or download the Brussels Airlines mobile app to sign up instantly.
• Receive your digital service card immediately and enter your number when booking to start earning miles and points on your very next trip.

Brussels Airlines prides itself on offering a "boutique hotel in the air" experience, infusing every flight with Belgian hospitality. Whether you are flying across Europe or embarking on an intercontinental journey, the airline provides distinct cabin classes tailored to different needs and budgets, ensuring comfort from takeoff to landing.

Business Class

Designed for travelers seeking luxury and efficiency, Business Class offers a premium experience. On short-haul flights to cities like Zurich or Paris, passengers enjoy the privacy of an empty middle seat, increased baggage allowance, and access to exclusive airport lounges. For long-haul routes, the experience is elevated with lie-flat beds that extend to two meters, ensuring a restful sleep. Some seats offer a "throne" configuration for solo travelers desiring extra privacy and workspace. Guests are treated to amenity kits, noise-canceling headphones, and a welcome drink to start their journey in style.

Premium Economy Class

Available on long-haul flights, Premium Economy is the perfect middle ground for travelers wanting extra comfort without the price tag of Business Class. The cabin features a separate, quiet section with wider seats that offer generous recline and significantly more legroom than the standard economy cabin. Passengers in this class also receive an upgraded culinary experience, a larger personal entertainment screen, and convenient amenities like a water bottle and hot towel service.

Economy Class

Economy Class combines value with reliability. On European flights to destinations such as Lisbon or Venice, travelers can choose from different fare structures (Light, Classic, Flex) to suit their packing needs. The ergonomic seats are designed to maximize personal space. On intercontinental journeys, passengers are provided with complimentary meals, drinks, and a personal in-flight entertainment screen to pass the time comfortably.

In-Flight Dining: A Taste of Belgium

Culinary excellence is a hallmark of Brussels Airlines. The airline acts as a flying ambassador for Belgian cuisine:

• Business Class Dining: On long-haul flights, menus are often created by "Belgian Star Chefs," featuring gourmet dishes paired with award-winning wines and, naturally, a selection of famous Belgian beers. The service concludes with fine Belgian chocolates.
• Economy Dining: Long-haul passengers enjoy complimentary hot meals with a choice of main courses. On shorter flights within Europe, the "Brussels Bistro" menu offers a variety of fresh sandwiches, salads, and authentic Belgian snacks like waffles and fries available for purchase.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Time flies when you are entertained. The state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system on intercontinental flights features extensive libraries of the latest movies, TV series, music, and games, accessible via large individual touchscreens. For European flights, the airline offers digital newspapers and magazines, which can be downloaded to your personal device before departure, ensuring you stay up to date with news and lifestyle trends while traveling to Stockholm or Athens.

Special Services

Brussels Airlines is dedicated to making travel accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The airline offers comprehensive assistance for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM), which should be requested in advance to ensure smooth handling at the airport and onboard.

For families, the airline adds a touch of magic with its affection for Belgian comic characters. Children are often greeted with special amenities or activity packs featuring The Smurfs or other beloved icons. Unaccompanied minor services are also available, providing supervised travel for children flying alone to ensure their safety and their parents' peace of mind.

Operating from its strategic hub at Brussels Airport, Brussels Airlines serves as a primary gateway connecting the "Capital of Europe" to the world. The airline’s extensive network is designed to meet the needs of both corporate travelers and vacationers, offering seamless connectivity across the continent and across the Atlantic.

Key European Connections

The carrier maintains a robust schedule to major European business centers and cultural capitals. Travelers can enjoy frequent and convenient access to the heart of Germany with flights to Frankfurt am Main, Munich, and the vibrant capital of Berlin. The network also deeply covers the Alpine region, connecting passengers to Vienna, Geneva, and Zurich.

For those looking to explore the richness of Western and Northern Europe, the airline provides essential links to global cities such as London and Paris, as well as Scandinavian favorites like Copenhagen and Stockholm.

Leisure and Cultural Getaways

Brussels Airlines is also the perfect choice for holidaymakers seeking the sun, history, and romance of Southern and Central Europe. Popular routes include:

• Italy: Discover the ancient history of Rome, the fashion streets of Milan, or the canals of Venice.
• Iberian Peninsula: Experience the energy of Madrid or the coastal charm of Lisbon.
• Historic Gems: Wander through the medieval streets of Prague or visit the cradle of civilization in Athens.
• Mediterranean Coast: Relax on the French Riviera with flights to Nice.

Transatlantic Routes

Beyond its European stronghold, the airline facilitates important long-haul connections to North America. Passengers can travel seamlessly to the bustling metropolis of New York City or the dynamic city of Chicago, linking the European capital with key destinations across the pond.

Booking a flight with Brussels Airlines opens up a wide network of connections across Europe and Africa via their efficient hub in Brussels. To secure the best possible fares, it is generally advisable to book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance. Travelers often find lower prices by being flexible with their dates and opting for mid-week flights rather than weekends. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions and special offers, which are frequently released for off-peak travel periods.

To make your journey smoother, take advantage of the online check-in service. This feature typically opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure, allowing you to confirm your presence and obtain your boarding pass digitally. Using the official mobile app is highly recommended; it not only stores your boarding pass but also provides real-time notifications about gate changes or delays, keeping you informed every step of the way.

When it comes to comfort, consider your seat selection carefully. While standard seat selection might be available during check-in, reserving your preferred spot—such as a window seat or one with extra legroom—during the booking process ensures you get the comfort you desire. Additionally, never overlook the importance of comprehensive travel insurance. It provides peace of mind by covering unexpected events, from flight cancellations to lost luggage, ensuring your trip remains a positive experience.

Rising from a Rich Legacy
The story of Brussels Airlines is deeply intertwined with the aviation history of Belgium. Following the cessation of operations by the historic national carrier Sabena in 2001, a new entity emerged to ensure the country remained connected to the world. Originally operating as SN Brussels Airlines, the company was founded in 2002. It initially focused on maintaining essential flight links to European capitals and sustaining the vital long-haul connections to the African continent that had long been a specialty of Belgian aviation.

A Strategic Merger
A pivotal moment in the company's history occurred in 2006, when SN Brussels Airlines announced a merger with Virgin Express, a low-cost carrier based in Brussels. This strategic union was designed to combine the reliability of a full-service airline with the competitive pricing models of the budget market. In March 2007, the merged entity officially launched operations under the new brand name "Brussels Airlines," positioning itself as a hybrid carrier capable of serving both business travelers and vacationers effectively.

Joining the Global Stage
The airline's growth trajectory accelerated significantly in the late 2000s. In 2009, Brussels Airlines became a member of the Star Alliance, the world's largest airline partnership, instantly expanding its global reach and offering passengers seamless connections worldwide. Around the same time, the Lufthansa Group acquired a 45% stake in the company. This partnership deepened over the years, culminating in 2017 when the Lufthansa Group acquired the remaining shares, making Brussels Airlines a fully integrated subsidiary and securing its long-term future within one of aviation's most powerful groups.

Fleet Modernization and Evolution
In its early years, the airline operated a mixed fleet that included the distinctive Avro RJ85 and RJ100 jets, known as "Jumbolinos," which were well-suited for short runways and city-center airports. As the airline matured, it embarked on a comprehensive fleet harmonization program to improve efficiency and comfort. The four-engine Avro jets were gradually phased out and replaced by the Airbus A320 family for short- and medium-haul routes. Today, the long-haul fleet consists entirely of Airbus A330 aircraft, which have been retrofitted with modern cabins to support the airline's "boutique hotel" service concept.

Expanding Horizons
While maintaining its stronghold as a specialist in flights to Africa, Brussels Airlines steadily expanded its transatlantic footprint. The launch of direct flights to New York City marked a significant milestone, re-establishing a direct link between the Belgian capital and the Big Apple. This was followed by additional services to North American destinations, including Chicago, solidifying the airline's position as a key player in transatlantic travel.

Flying the Flag: The Belgian Icons
In a move to celebrate its heritage, the airline introduced a unique series of special liveries known as the "Belgian Icons." Starting in 2015 with an aircraft dedicated to Tintin, the famous comic book character, the initiative grew to include tributes to the surrealist painter Magritte, The Smurfs, the Tomorrowland music festival, and the Flemish Master Bruegel. These flying pieces of art have become ambassadors for Belgian culture, turning the aircraft themselves into attractions spotted at airports from London to Rome.