In the second half of 2026, Brussels Airlines will introduce high-speed Wi-Fi on the first aircraft of its fleet, reopen its fully renovated lounge at Brussels Airport and further expand its network.
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In the first 6 months of 2026, Brussels Airlines transported 4.5 million passengers on 34,200 flights, representing increases of 8.1% and 5.5% respectively compared to the same period last year. Revenues increased by 9.5%. The airline improved its operational stability, leading to higher passenger satisfaction and lower irregularity costs. Per passenger, the irregularity cost decreased by 16%.
Despite strong operational results, Brussels Airlines was impacted by several external setbacks, such as the unrest in the Middle East and its impact on oil prices. This resulted in additional fuel costs. In the first six months, fuel costs were up 64 million euros compared to the same period last year.
In May, an Ebola outbreak was reported in some regions in East Africa. This resulted in lower travel demand and posed several operational challenges, as crew scheduling and destination restrictions imposed by certain countries created additional operational complexity. Therefore, Brussels Airlines reports an adjusted EBIT of -70 million euros for the first half year of 2026, a decrease of 50% compared to the previous year.
Outlook for 2027
In close deliberation with Lufthansa Group, it is decided that Brussels Airlines will not add two additional Airbus A330 aircraft to the fleet in 2027. The long-haul fleet will for now stay as is, with 11 Airbus A330 aircraft. For summer 2027, Brussels Airlines does not plan to operate any wet-lease capacity. The four airBaltic aircraft currently deployed in Brussels through the end of October will not be returning for the 2027 Summer season.
The introduction of new cabins on the long-haul fleet, a multi-million-euro investment, remains on track. Brussels Airlines plans to unveil the new cabins for Business Class, Premium Economy Class and Economy Class in the course of 2027.