โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
35
minutes
Domestic โ International
65
minutes
International โ Domestic
65
minutes
International โ International
80
minutes
Interline Connections
105
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL/EBCI) is the second-busiest airport in Belgium and a major European hub for low-cost carriers, primarily serving the Walloon region and as a secondary gateway to Brussels. Located in Gosselies, a suburb of Charleroi, approximately 46 kilometers south of the Belgian capital, it acts as a primary base for Ryanair and Wizz Air. The airport plays a vital role in providing affordable international connectivity to over 100 destinations across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, supporting the regional economy and the broader European travel market.
The airport features a two-terminal complex: Terminal 1 (T1) is the main facility handling the vast majority of international flights, while Terminal 2 (T2) was opened more recently to increase capacity during peak periods. The two terminals are connected landside by a short covered walkway, taking only a few minutes to traverse. Inside the terminals, travelers will find a wide array of amenities, including several duty-free and retail shops offering Belgian chocolates and travel essentials, a variety of dining options ranging from quick-service snack bars to sit-down cafes, and high-quality Wi-Fi. The terminal design focuses on efficient passenger flow and rapid aircraft turnaround times, characteristic of budget-focused aviation hubs.
Operational capacity at Charleroi Airport is supported by a significant paved runway (06/24) measuring 2,550 meters in length, which is capable of handling most narrow-body commercial jets such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. Navigation through the terminal is relatively straightforward due to its logical layout, although the facility can become quite busy during peak morning and evening flight banks. For ground transportation, the airport is well-connected to Brussels and other Belgian cities via the frequent Brussels City Shuttle (Flibco), local bus links to the Charleroi South railway station, and several international car rental agencies located in the arrivals area. Travelers are encouraged to allow extra time for security screening and the potentially long walk to remote aircraft stands.
๐ Connection Tips
Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) serves as a major European hub for low-cost carriers, primarily Ryanair and Wizz Air. Because the airport is designed around a budget-focused model, most connections are "self-connections" (booked on separate tickets), which require careful logistical planning. CRL consists of two terminals, T1 and T2, located within the same complex and just a five-minute walk apart. If you are transferring between flights, allow at least two to three hours, especially if you have checked baggage, as you will likely need to exit the secure zone, collect your bags, and pass through security again. For those traveling with hand luggage only on Schengen-to-Schengen routes, an airside shuttle bus occasionally runs between the terminals, potentially saving you from clearing security a second time.
Passport control can be a significant bottleneck for non-Schengen travelers (such as those heading to the UK or Morocco), so factor in extra time during peak morning and evening periods. To streamline your transit, you can purchase a Fast Track pass for approximately โฌ10, which is highly recommended during busy periods. For onward travel to Brussels, the Flibco shuttle bus is the most reliable and frequent option, departing every 20-30 minutes for Brussels-Midi station; booking tickets online in advance is significantly cheaper than purchasing them at the airport kiosk. Alternatively, a combined ticket for the TEC Bus A and the Belgian rail network provides a more economical route via Charleroi-Central station. Inside the terminal, The Lounge in both T1 and T2 offers a comfortable space with Wi-Fi and refreshments for those with longer layovers. Always check your gate and terminal assignment upon arrival, as terminal usage can vary based on daily flight schedules.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Flanders International Airport (KJK), also known as Kortrijk-Wevelgem International Airport, is a premier business and general aviation hub serving the West Flanders region of Belgium. Situated approximately 2 kilometers from the Wevelgem town center and near the French border, the airport acts as a critical link for corporate travelers bypassing the congestion of major commercial hubs. The facility features a modern, two-story terminal center specifically designed for high-end service, acting as a strategic gateway for the region's industrial and administrative sectors.
The terminal's layout is organized across two functional levels to ensure a highly efficient passenger and crew experience. The ground floor serves as the primary hub for Customs & Border Protection (CBP) services, housing modernized immigration checkpoints for Schengen and non-Schengen traffic. This level also features a specialized 'Pilotroom' for flight crews, equipped with cloud printing, media players, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The second floor is the commercial and meeting zone, housing the panoramic 'Biggles' restaurant and bar, which offers full views of the 1,900-meter asphalt runway (06/24) and the airfield apron.
Amenities within the Flanders International terminal are uniquely tailored to business aviation. The facility features high-tech conference rooms equipped with 84-inch 4K smart screens and video conferencing systems, making it a popular choice for 'fly-in' business meetings. For refreshments, the Biggles restaurant provides authentic Belgian lunch and coffee, while a dedicated 'M-eating Area' offers a more private dining environment for corporate clients. The facility provides free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout, clean public restrooms, and specialized FBO services including aircraft handling, fueling (Jet A1 and Avgas), and de-icing managed by partners like Luxaviation.
Ground transportation at KJK is well-coordinated with the region's motorway network, located near the intersection of the E17 and E403 highways. Travelers can easily access central Kortrijk, Ghent, and even Lille (France) via local taxi services or pre-arranged private hires stationed near the terminal exit. There are no dedicated public airport shuttle buses, but the airport's proximity to the city allows for a quick 10-to-15 minute transfer. For those preferring independent travel, car rental services can be coordinated through local providers and delivered to the terminal. Travelers are generally advised to arrive at least 45 to 60 minutes before their scheduled private or charter flight to account for security and manifest procedures.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting at Flanders International Airport (KJK) is a specialized process due to its focus on business and general aviation. For most travelers, a 'connection' here involves transitioning from a private charter or corporate jet to local ground transport for travel across Flanders or into Northern France. Since all passenger and administrative facilities are housed within a single building, moving from your arrival gate to the transport hub outside can be completed in under 5 minutes. However, it is advisable to allow at least 45 minutes for any onward connection to account for baggage retrieval and potential customs re-checks. Ground transportation is the most critical link for any traveler transiting through Wevelgem. While taxis are available, it is highly recommended to pre-arrange a private vehicle or a rental car if you are heading directly to the Kortrijk Xpo or the Port of Ghent, as there is no on-site public transit terminal. If your onward journey involves an international flight from Brussels (BRU) or Charleroi (CRL), ensure you have a minimum buffer of 90 to 120 minutes to account for the motorway drive. Digital information displays at the terminal provide updates on local weather and airfield status, but direct communication with your FBO dispatcher is the most reliable source of information for private flights. Practical preparation for a KJK connection includes utilizing the airport's modern business infrastructure. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected and confirm onward hotel or meeting bookings.
โ Back to Brussels South Charleroi Airport