Brussels Airport unveils decade-long expansion to boost capacity, connectivity and passenger experience by 2032

Credit: Brussels Airport

Brussels Airport (BRU) has announced a major investment programme to modernise and expand its infrastructure, marking its most significant transformation in 30 years. The multi-phase project includes the construction of a new intermodal mobility hub, an expanded terminal, a new drop-off zone, a four-star hotel, and a green boulevard with a park. This initiative aims to enhance the passenger experience, support rising traveller numbers, and strengthen BRU’s role as a central European transport hub. Completion is expected by 2032.

Details on Brussels Airport’s expansion

The upgrade is designed to accommodate projected passenger growth and aligns with BRU’s environmental permit. The plans emphasise sustainability, mobility, and overall quality.

“As hub airport in the heart of Europe, Brussels Airport wants to further invest in the capacity and quality of its infrastructure for both passengers and employees. We are therefore proud to present our plans that will greatly enhance the experience of our passengers,” said Arnaud Feist, CEO of Brussels Airport. “Brussels Airport will offer passengers a totally revamped experience in the departure and arrival hall, with more space and light and breathtaking views of the operations on the tarmac.”

Feist highlighted that improving interconnectivity between transport modes—such as train, bus, and the future tram—is a core part of the transformation.

As a key mobility hub, Brussels Airport (BRU) intends to enhance access for all transport modes, including planes, trains, buses, cars, taxis, cyclists, trams, and pedestrians. The upgraded intermodal hub will include an improved train station connection, a revamped bus terminal, a restructured taxi area, and a new intercity bus platform.

A pleasant green boulevard and park will connect travellers with sustainable transport options including tram and cycle paths. A newly planned drop-off zone, positioned behind the Sheraton hotel, will improve access to the terminal and separate passenger drop-off traffic from other flows.

Federal Minister of Mobility Jean-Luc Crucke praised the plans, stating: “This investment shows that the airport thinks ahead without losing sight of sustainability… These are great and ambitious plans that don’t think in boundaries, but rather in connections.”

Flemish Deputy Minister-President Ben Weyts added: “Large investments in the airport pay off for all of us. Moreover, a lot of attention goes to the livability of the area, better multimodal access and more green space.”

To respond to increasing passenger numbers, BRU will also expand its departure and arrival halls. The extension will alleviate crowding during peak periods and improve access and processing capacity, especially for check-in and passengers with reduced mobility (PRMs). A new 300-room, four-star hotel will be added, enhancing BRU’s on-site accommodation offering alongside the existing Sheraton.

The project reflects a strong focus on sustainability, featuring geothermal energy storage, solar panels, heat pumps, and natural lighting design.

Construction on the new drop-off zone begins late 2025, finishing in 2026. Work on the intermodal hub, terminal expansion and hotel is set to begin in late 2026, with phased completion through to 2032.

Brussels Airport (BRU) is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth and connectivity, securing its place as a leading European airport for the future.

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