Transport operators prepare for busy summer with extra flights and trains
Brussels Airport is preparing for its busiest summer in years, expecting over 5.1 million passengers across July and August. At the same time, Belgian rail operator SNCB/NMBS is ramping up coastal and tourist train services to meet growing demand.
Brussels Airport is expecting 5 per cent more passengers than last year. The first major peak is set for this Friday, with around 90,000 travellers passing through the terminal. The airport will serve 180 direct destinations over the coming weeks, with Spain, Turkey, Greece, Italy and Morocco remaining the top choices for holidaymakers.
Tomorrowland pop-up
More than 1,800 outbound flights per week are scheduled. The busiest day of the season is expected on Saturday 28 July, with over 93,000 passengers. New services include an expanded help desk in the departure hall and a Tomorrowland-themed mini festival in Pier A throughout July.
To help manage the crowds, the federal government has launched a summer plan to cut long queues at passport control. Additional police officers will be deployed during peak periods to ease congestion.
Summer rail offer
Meanwhile, SNCB/NMBS is boosting its summer rail offer. This Saturday and Sunday, 10 extra trains will run to and from the coastal cities of Ostend and Blankenberge. These come on top of the regular Coast Express services, with added frequency throughout the week.
Extra trains will also serve major festivals, tourist destinations and family attractions. Special summer routes will link cities to destinations like Planckendael and Pairi Daiza zoos, and Walibi and Plopsaland De Panne theme parks. A dedicated train from Liège will run to the Ourthe Valley and Durbuy on weekends.
Commuter train cuts
Despite the boosted leisure services, regular commuter trains will be cut. P-trains (rush-hour reinforcement services), many S-trains (suburban services) and several InterCity lines will be suspended. Most weekday IC trains between Kortrijk, Zottegem and Brussels will not operate, and the weekend IC between Bruges and Kortrijk via Lichtervelde will be paused.
Between Burst and Aalst, no trains will run this summer due to infrastructure works. SNCB/NMBS says this seasonal cutback reflects lower demand for work and school travel during the holidays, and resources are being redirected to tourist lines.
Discovery Ticket
Travellers can also take advantage of the Discovery Ticket, offering half-price return train journeys combined with entry to attractions. These are valid for over 20 destinations, from kayaking in Houyet to popular summer festivals.
With both airport and rail networks under pressure, Belgian authorities are working to balance efficiency, safety and comfort for millions of travellers expected during the peak summer months.
© BELGA PHOTO BENOIT DOPPAGNE
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