Brussels Airport is Belgium's main international airport, located in Zaventem just 12 km northeast of the capital. It serves over 25 million passengers annually, connecting Belgium to hundreds of destinations across Europe and beyond. Whether you are travelling for business, tourism, or an EU visit, BRU is a well-organised and accessible gateway to the heart of Europe.
Brussels is served by two airports. Brussels Airport (BRU) in Zaventem is the primary hub for full-service and international airlines. Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), located about 55 km south of the city, mainly serves low-cost carriers like Ryanair. Most travellers will use BRU for major airline connections.
Brussels Airport has a single passenger terminal divided into separate zones for Schengen and non-Schengen passengers. The terminal is modern and well-signposted, with distinct departure and arrival levels, making navigation straightforward for first-time and returning visitors alike.
As Brussels Airport operates from one terminal, there is no inter-terminal transfer required. All check-in, departure gates, and arrivals are within the same building. Walking distances between gates can take up to 15 minutes, so allow adequate time when connecting between flights, especially across Schengen and non-Schengen zones.
Brussels Airport has three runways: 07L/25R, 07R/25L, and 01/19. Runway usage is rotated based on wind conditions and noise management agreements with surrounding communities. This setup provides the airport with the operational flexibility needed to handle high passenger and cargo volumes efficiently.
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Brussels Airport has multiple lounge options including the Brussels Airlines Business Lounge for premium passengers and the No. 1 Lounge accessible via Priority Pass or a day pass. General terminal facilities include free Wi-Fi, duty-free retail, restaurants and cafes, currency exchange, ATMs, luggage storage, baby care rooms, and medical services.
There is no shortage of ways to spend your time at BRU. Browse duty-free shops stocked with Belgian chocolates, waffles, and beers. Dine at local and international restaurants, or grab a quick coffee before your gate opens. The terminal features rotating art exhibitions, a relaxation zone with charging points, and a children's play area for families.
The official name is Brussels Airport. It was formerly known as Zaventem Airport and Brussels National Airport.
The IATA code is BRU, which appears on boarding passes, luggage tags, and all flight booking documents.
All flights operate from a single terminal. Separate Schengen and non-Schengen immigration zones within the terminal handle the different passenger categories.
Brussels Airport is in Zaventem, Flemish Brabant, approximately 12 km northeast of Brussels city centre.
The airport first opened in 1940 and has undergone significant expansion and modernisation, with major development work completed through the 1990s and 2000s.
The terminal supports early morning to late-night operations, but not all shops and services run around the clock. Check service availability if you have a very early or late flight.
It is about 12 km away. The Airport Express train connects BRU to Brussels Central, Midi, and North stations in around 20 minutes.
Brussels Airlines is the home carrier. Other airlines include Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, easyJet, and Wizz Air.
Yes. The Brussels Airlines Business Lounge serves premium travellers, and the No. 1 Lounge is open to Priority Pass holders and day-pass purchasers, offering seating, food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and showers.
Domestic Flights
International Flights