Brussels Airport is gearing up for a significant transformation, announcing a €500 million renovation project aimed at accommodating a surge in passenger traffic. The ambitious plans were revealed during a press conference held on April 18, 2025, where airport CEO Arnaud Feist highlighted the pressing need for expansion as the airport anticipates a rise in passenger numbers from 24 million in 2024 to an estimated 32 million by 2032.
"The current terminal is designed for 28 to 30 million passengers per year," Feist stated, noting that the airport has already been experiencing congestion on busy days. The renovation is set to address these issues head-on, with a focus on creating more spacious and modern facilities for travelers.
The project entails a comprehensive redesign and expansion of both the arrival and departure halls at Zaventem, which is Belgium's busiest airport. Additionally, the plans include the construction of a new intermodal transport hub to enhance connectivity between various modes of transport, including buses, trains, and taxis. This hub aims to alleviate congestion and improve access to the airport.
As part of the renovation, a new drop-off zone will be established near the departure hall, strategically located behind the existing Sheraton hotel, which is nearing full capacity for half the year. This new drop-off area is designed to separate traffic, ensuring smoother operations for passengers arriving at the airport.
Incorporating sustainability into the project, the airport plans to introduce more green spaces, including a "Green Boulevard" that will feature a park and dedicated lanes for cyclists. This initiative reflects a growing trend towards environmentally friendly transportation solutions and aims to provide a more pleasant experience for visitors.
Feist emphasized the importance of these investments, stating, "The airport is an engine of prosperity and a major employer in Flemish Brabant, which also has enormous value for the rest of Flanders and certainly Brussels. Large investments in the airport pay off for all of us." This sentiment was echoed by Ben Weyts, the Flemish minister responsible for the periphery of Brussels, who underscored the airport's economic significance.
The renovation marks the largest investment in Brussels Airport in the last 30 years, a period that has seen significant changes in air travel and passenger expectations. The last major updates were completed in the 1990s when the current terminal and Pier B were constructed.
Construction is set to commence in phases, with the first stage expected to begin at the end of 2026. The public transport hub is slated to be built between 2028 and 2030, while the terminal building, hotel, and Green Boulevard are projected to be completed between 2030 and 2032.
In addition to the new hotel, which will comprise 300 rooms and aim to serve the growing demand for accommodation at the airport, the plans also include renovations to the existing bus station and taxi rank. These improvements are crucial for enhancing the overall passenger experience, particularly as the airport prepares for a significant increase in foot traffic.
With the current capacity of the airport already stretched, these renovations come at a critical time. The forecasted growth in passenger numbers represents a 33% increase, necessitating immediate action to ensure that Brussels Airport can operate efficiently and effectively.
As the airport embarks on this ambitious renovation project, it aims not only to enhance its facilities but also to position itself as a more competitive player in the European aviation market. The investment is expected to bolster the airport's role as a key hub for international travel, further solidifying its importance in the region.
In summary, Brussels Airport's €500 million renovation project is a proactive response to the anticipated rise in passenger numbers and aims to create a modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly travel hub. With a focus on connectivity, sustainability, and passenger comfort, the airport is set to undergo a transformation that will benefit travelers and the local economy alike.
