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Brussels Airport Reports 11.7 Million Passengers and Strong Cargo Growth in H1 2026
Brussels Airport saw a 3.6% rise in passenger traffic to 11.7 million and an 8.3% increase in cargo volumes despite operational disruptions in early 2026.
The gist
Brussels Airport grew passenger traffic and cargo volumes robustly in the first half of 2026, expanding routes amid regional conflicts and strikes.
Brussels Airport has demonstrated resilience by achieving a 3.6% increase in passenger numbers and an 8.3% rise in cargo volumes during the first six months of 2026, reaching nearly 11.7 million travelers and close to 420,000 tonnes of freight handled. The results came despite disruptions posed by social actions and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, underscoring the airport’s robust operational capabilities and strategic growth initiatives.
The first half of 2026 marked the launch of eight new destinations at Brussels Airport, including five long-haul routes that notably enhanced its global connectivity. Among these were Air China’s new service and an added connection to Chengdu, strengthening ties with the Asian market. Additionally, the airport inaugurated direct flights to São Paulo via LATAM Airlines, restoring a Belgium-South America link absent for over 25 years, and Brussels Airlines commenced flights to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, expanding access to East Africa.
Operational challenges impacted activity during the period. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East led to suspended flights to Tel Aviv and scaling back of services to the Gulf region. Meanwhile, strikes disrupted passenger flows, with industrial actions in March and May affecting approximately 55,000 travelers. A strike by air traffic control provider skeyes on June 2 further disrupted 25,000 passengers. Despite these interruptions, demand for air travel at the airport remained resilient, supporting overall growth.
Cargo operations were a highlight, with an 8.3% year-over-year increase to nearly 420,000 tonnes handled, reinforcing Brussels Airport’s role as a key European cargo hub. Freight volumes saw differential growth: full freighter traffic increased by 16.7%, trucked cargo rose 16.2%, and air freight carried in belly holds registered a modest 0.1% uptick, reflecting vulnerability to route disruptions in the Middle East. This diversified uplift points to the benefits of the airport’s strategy targeting a broad range of commodities and market segments.
Investment is underway to modernize the airport’s cargo facilities to support future capacity expansion. These upgrades aim to accommodate increasing demand for pharmaceuticals, perishables, e-commerce goods, and other specialized cargo. Expanded infrastructure is intended to sustain long-term competitiveness and service quality for international logistics operators utilizing Brussels as a gateway.
June 2026 alone surpassed 2.2 million passengers, a 1.7% increase from the previous year, fueled by new routes to São Paulo, Kilimanjaro, and Halifax, alongside resumed services to Doha and increased flight frequencies. Cargo volumes during the month were up 12.2%, with notable surges in full freighter and trucked cargo segments. Passenger flight movements remained nearly stable, with a slight increase in commercial traffic levels.
Popular destinations throughout June included Spain, Italy, Greece, and Germany, indicating strong European travel demand. Transfer passengers accounted for 15% of total traffic, highlighting Brussels Airport’s role as a hub connecting Europe with Africa and North America. These figures reflect sustained and balanced growth in both point-to-point and transfer passenger segments.
Looking beyond the first half of 2026, Brussels Airport’s network now covers 205 direct destinations served by 83 airlines, providing broad connectivity for both leisure and business travelers. The facility continues to assert itself as a leader in European air cargo, especially in the pharmaceutical sector. Its SHIFT 2027 strategic plan emphasizes sustainability, technological innovation, and market diversification as pillars for future development.
As a major economic driver for Belgium, supporting approximately 64,000 jobs, Brussels Airport’s expansion benefits the country and surrounding regions. With investments in infrastructure and a diversified route portfolio, the airport is positioned to leverage its positive momentum and address ongoing operational challenges in the months ahead.
Frequently asked questions
- How many passengers did Brussels Airport serve in the first half of 2026?
- Brussels Airport handled approximately 11.7 million passengers in the first six months of 2026, a 3.6% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
- What cargo growth did Brussels Airport achieve in early 2026?
- Cargo volumes increased by 8.3%, with nearly 420,000 tonnes handled; full freighter and trucked cargo segments saw double-digit growth, while belly cargo growth was minimal.
- What new routes were introduced at Brussels Airport in the first half of 2026?
- Eight new destinations were launched, including Air China services to Chengdu, LATAM flights to São Paulo, and Brussels Airlines routes to Kilimanjaro, expanding long-haul and international connectivity.
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