Christmas Travel Surge: Brussels Airport Expects Million Passengers This December

Published on December 19, 2025

Brussels Airport is preparing for a busy Christmas holiday season, with over 1 million passengers expected to travel through the airport between Friday, 19 December and Sunday, 4 January. This marks a record number of passengers during the Christmas period, with an estimated 1,060,000 travelers expected to depart and arrive. The number represents an increase of nearly 3% compared to last year, highlighting the ongoing growth in European and international travel during the festive season.

As one of Europe’s major aviation hubs, Brussels Airport plays a vital role in connecting the Belgian capital to destinations across the globe. With the holiday season bringing significant demand for both leisure and business travel, the airport is anticipating a smooth and efficient process for passengers traveling to and from Brussels.

Increased Holiday Travel at Brussels Airport

The Christmas break is historically one of the busiest times of the year for airports worldwide, and Brussels Airport is no exception. The airport is set to handle a substantial increase in passenger traffic over the next few weeks, with the peak of activity occurring during the days leading up to Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Passenger numbers are expected to rise due to a combination of factors, including holiday vacations, family reunions, and business travel. Brussels serves as a major travel hub for both tourists and business travelers heading to destinations throughout Europe, as well as long-haul flights to North America, Asia, and Africa. Additionally, travelers from Brussels are eager to take advantage of the holiday season for leisure trips to popular destinations like Paris, London, Barcelona, and beyond.

The increase in traffic is in line with broader trends across the aviation industry, as passengers take advantage of the festive period to travel for family gatherings, holiday tours, and year-end vacations. Brussels Airport is expecting a high number of outbound travelers heading to winter destinations, including ski resorts in the Alps, and sunny getaways in destinations like Dubai and the Canary Islands.

Efforts to Handle the Surge in Passengers

To ensure a smooth experience for travelers, Brussels Airport has taken several steps to prepare for the increase in traffic. The airport is extending its staffing levels, including additional check-in counters and security personnel to assist passengers through the various processes. Passengers are encouraged to arrive early for their flights, especially those flying during peak hours, to allow for sufficient time to complete check-in and security procedures.

In addition, Brussels Airport has been working to streamline the check-in and boarding processes by expanding the availability of self-check-in kiosks and digital services. This year, the airport is also emphasizing contactless services and online check-in to enhance passenger convenience and reduce queues.

The airport has also implemented specific measures to enhance security checks, ensuring the safety of passengers while maintaining the efficiency of the flow. Travelers are advised to adhere to guidelines on liquids and hand luggage and to have their documents ready for inspection to avoid delays.

For those arriving at the airport, Brussels Airport has a variety of amenities available, including shopping outlets, restaurants, and duty-free stores. With its modern facilities, the airport aims to make passengers’ time spent at the airport as comfortable as possible.

Brussels as a Gateway for European and International Travel

Brussels Airport continues to be one of Europe’s most important airports, serving as the primary international gateway for Belgium. As the base for Brussels Airlines, the airport connects travelers to a variety of European and international destinations. The airport’s role as a central hub for both leisure tourism and business travel highlights its importance not just for Belgium, but for the wider European travel market.

For international tourists, Brussels Airport provides seamless connections to iconic European cities such as Brussels, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Paris, while serving as a gateway to Africa and the Middle East. The airport is an essential point of departure for travelers heading to countries like Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa.

Beyond its connectivity to Europe, Brussels is also a key starting point for long-haul flights. In addition to traditional tourist destinations, travelers can explore far-reaching destinations such as New York, Dubai, Beijing, and Bangkok. The increased international demand for travel during the Christmas period further reinforces Brussels Airport’s role as a hub for both business and tourism.

Christmas Travel Tips for Passengers

With over 1 million passengers expected to pass through the airport, travelers are encouraged to plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey. Brussels Airport recommends arriving at least two hours before short-haul flights and three hours before long-haul flights to allow sufficient time for check-in, security, and boarding procedures. Online check-in is highly recommended to save time, and passengers should also check with airlines for specific baggage requirements during the holiday period.

Brussels Airport also offers parking facilities for travelers, but with the expected surge in passengers, advance parking reservations are encouraged. Public transport options, including trains and shuttles, are available, providing easy access to the airport from different parts of the city and beyond.

A Bright Outlook for Brussels Tourism

The holiday season represents a significant period for Brussels’ tourism sector, as travelers come from all over the world to experience the city’s festive spirit. Known for its historical landmarks, Christmas markets, and beautiful winter lights, Brussels continues to attract international visitors during the holiday period. The city’s rich history, cultural offerings, and culinary delights, such as Belgian chocolates and waffles, make it an ideal destination for those looking to explore European traditions and holiday celebrations.

For those arriving in Brussels, the Grand Place and Manneken Pis are just a few of the many iconic landmarks waiting to be explored, alongside the Christmas markets that attract thousands of visitors each year.

Conclusion: A Record-Breaking Christmas for Brussels Airport

With over 1 million passengers expected at Brussels Airport between December 19 and January 4, the airport is set to experience a record-breaking holiday season. This surge in travel highlights the continued importance of the festive period to the global aviation industry and the tourism sector in Belgium. Whether for business or leisure, Brussels Airport remains an essential gateway for travelers heading to and from Europe, Africa, Asia, and beyond during the most wonderful time of the year.