โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
40
minutes
Domestic โ International
70
minutes
International โ Domestic
70
minutes
International โ International
85
minutes
Interline Connections
110
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Brussels Airport (BRU) operates as a large, single-terminal facility designed around a central building called "The Connector," which seamlessly links the check-in area to the boarding piers. The terminal layout is split into two primary zones: Pier A (gates A and T) mainly serves Schengen flights and select Brussels Airlines long-haul routes (Africa, New York), while Pier B handles non-Schengen traffic. The Connector replaces the old underground tunnels with an open, above-ground structure that houses the centralized security screening and provides expansive views of the tarmac.
Security processing is concentrated within The Connector. All passengers pass through this central checkpoint before diverging to their respective piers. Fast Lane access is available for premium travelers. Immigration control is situated at the entrance to Pier B and at the transfer point between Pier A and B for connecting passengers. The walk from security to the furthest gates in Pier A or B can take 10-15 minutes, so passengers should factor this into their plans, especially if stopping at the many shops along the way.
Amenities at Brussels Airport are extensive. The Connector and both piers feature a wide array of luxury boutiques, duty-free stores, and Belgian specialty shops (chocolate, beer). Dining options range from quick bites (Starbucks, Exki) to sit-down meals (Belgian Beer Cafรฉ, various bistros). For lounge access, Pier A hosts the Sunrise Lounge (Brussels Airlines) and a Diamond Lounge. Pier B features the British Airways Galleries Lounge, another Diamond Lounge, and The View lounge. The Loft lounge in Pier A is a flagship facility but is scheduled for major renovations starting in 2026. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and the airport is fully accessible, with dedicated assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting at Brussels Airport (BRU) is highly efficient due to its single-terminal layout and the presence of 'The Connector,' a central building that seamlessly links the piers to the main security hall. The airport is functionally divided into Pier A, which manages most Schengen and domestic traffic, and Pier B, dedicated to Non-Schengen destinations like the UK, USA, and Turkey. For travelers transferring between piers, follow the prominent red 'Connection' signs. A critical logistical tip: when moving from Pier A to Pier B, you must clear passport control to exit the Schengen zone; conversely, moving from B to A requires both passport control and a secondary security screening. Allow at least 70-85 minutes for these inter-pier transitions.
A major highlight for frequent flyers is 'The Loft' lounge in Pier A (near Gate A42). Widely considered one of the best in Europe, it features a draft Belgian beer station, high-end Neuhaus chocolates, and quiet nap pods. For those heading to the city center, the airport's direct rail link is located on Level -1. Trains depart every 10-15 minutes and reach Brussels Central station in just 17 minutes for approximately โฌ10.30. Contactless 'Tap On, Tap Off' is now supported at the station gates for ultimate convenience.
Inside the terminal, amenities are world-class, including extensive Belgian chocolate boutiques and duty-free shops in the Connector. Security wait times are typically under 15 minutes, but the morning wave (6:00 AM โ 9:00 AM) can be busier; check the airportโs mobile app for real-time wait updates. Note that gate numbers are often only assigned 45-60 minutes before departure, so monitor the digital displays in the central marketplace area. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the facility, and numerous mobile charging stations are located near every gate wing.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
35
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
International โ Domestic
60
minutes
International โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
90
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Antwerp International Airport (ANR) is a modern and exceptionally efficient regional gateway serving Antwerp, Belgium's second-largest city and the 'Diamond Capital of the World.' Located just 5 kilometers southeast of the city center, the airport features a single, two-story passenger terminal designed for rapid processing and maximum convenience. It serves as a key base for TUI fly Belgium, which operates a seasonal network of flights to sun-drenched destinations across Spain, Turkey, Greece, and Croatia, as well as several North African cities. The airport is also a significant hub for business aviation, hosting a dedicated General Aviation Terminal managed by the ASL Group.
The terminal experience at Antwerp is defined by its compact layout and personalized service. On the ground floor, passengers will find check-in counters and a spacious arrivals hall, while the first floor houses security checkpoints and comfortable departure gates. Amenities are well-appointed and include the 'Belair' brasserie and restaurant, which features a landside terrace with panoramic views of the airfield. For business travelers, the airport offers premium lounges and conference facilities, including the exclusive 'E-lounge' in the Business Aviation Terminal. The 'Antwerp Fly Shop' provides essential travel items, snacks, and international press both before and after security, ensuring a comfortable wait for all passengers.
Operational excellence is a priority at ANR, which utilizes environmentally friendly Embraer E195-E2 aircraft for many of its routes to minimize its local footprint. The airport's small size allows for incredibly short walking distances, with security and check-in typically taking less than 30 minutes. This efficiency makes it a preferred choice for both leisure travelers and corporate executives seeking to avoid the congestion of larger European hubs. For visitors, the airport represents a professional and welcoming threshold to one of Europe's most vibrant cultural and artistic centers, offering immediate access to Antwerp's historic Grote Markt, stunning Central Station, and world-class fashion district.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting at Antwerp International Airport (ANR) is remarkably straightforward due to its single-terminal design and small scale. For travelers transferring between domestic and international flights (primarily within the Schengen area), the process can often be completed in under 45 minutes. However, for flights departing to non-Schengen destinations, it is recommended to arrive at least 2 to 2.5 hours before departure to allow for passport control. While interline baggage transfer is often available for TUI fly Belgium passengers, it is always wise to confirm this at your point of origin, as automatic transfers are not universally provided at regional facilities like ANR.\n\nGround transportation from the Antwerp terminal provides excellent connectivity to the city and the broader Belgian rail network. Bus lines 51, 52, and 53 offer frequent services directly to the city center and the Antwerpen-Berchem train station, a major interchange for national and international rail travel. The shuttle bus line 31 provides a rapid 5-minute link between Berchem Station and the airport terminal. For those seeking a faster journey, taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall, with the trip to central Antwerp taking approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Travelers should be aware that while the airport is highly efficient, seasonal holiday periods can see increased passenger volume; monitoring your flight status via the Antwerp Airport website or your airline's app is always recommended. For those heading to Brussels, the nearby rail links from Berchem provide a reliable and frequent connection taking around 45 minutes.
โ Back to Brussels Airport