Flying through Brussels this summer is possible — but it’s better not to risk it without a backup plan
If you’re planning to travel through Europe via Brussels, allow extra time for travel and connections. In May, airports in Belgium, Portugal, Spain, Ireland, and Germany recorded over 230 cancellations and more than 1,284 delayed flights, with Brussels among the cities affected by disruptions.
Why problems arise
The summer air travel season in Europe is under pressure from high passenger volumes. Even a single cancellation, crew shortages, technical malfunctions, or airport disruptions can quickly impact subsequent flights, as planes and crews operate on very tight schedules.
Brussels is crucial for connections between European cities, so a delay in one segment can easily break the entire itinerary. In June, disruptions in Belgian air traffic already caused cancellations, reroutes, and missed connections.
Is it worth traveling through Brussels?
Yes, if the route is convenient and you’re prepared for minor changes in plans. But for connections with short intervals, Brussels is not the best option this summer: even a flight that departs nearly on time can arrive late and leave you without the next segment.
It’s safest to choose a longer layover, especially if you have a train, cruise, important event, or another separate ticket afterward. If there’s a choice between a morning and an evening flight, the morning one usually offers a better chance to rebook on the same day if a disruption occurs.
What to do before your trip
Check the flight status right before heading to the airport and again on the day of travel. Keep your documents, charged phone, and access to the airline’s app handy, as notifications about changes may come shortly before departure.
Don’t plan too tight a schedule after arrival. If you’re traveling with luggage or have a connection between different tickets, extra time is especially important: delays can affect baggage claim, security, and re-checking.
Brussels remains a very viable point for summer travel, but this season it requires a bit more patience than usual. Are you ready to allow extra time for a convenient route through Brussels?
