Brussels Airlines was founded in 2002 to address the transport needs of Belgian passengers after the country’s former national carrier, Sabena, went bankrupt. Brussels Airlines merged with Virgin Express in 2004 and took over the carrier’s routes. The airline is owned by SN Airholding, through which it is a part of the Lufthansa Group. Other airlines owned by the group include SWISS, Austrian Airlines, and British Midland (bmi). Brussels Airlines is headquartered in Brussels, and is a SkyTrax 3-star airline. The carrier is associated with the MIles & More frequent flyer program and is also a member of the Star Alliance. Partner airlines include Air Canada, Continental, Jet Airways, United, US Airways, and Hainan Airlines, among others. Brussels Airlines planes are white with a blue tail. The airline’s name is seen across the aircraft body while its logo of a ‘b’ written in red dots is painted on both sides of the tail.

Brussels Airlines Ticketing and Check-in Information

Brussels Airlines offers 2 easy options for check-in:

Airport Counter Check-in: Check-in for your flight in the most conventional manner by stopping by the Brussels Airlines counter at the airport.

Next Day or Advance Check-in: This option allows you to save time and check-in for your flight up to 24 hours in advance of your departure time via the internet. To check-in online, visit Brussels Airlines’ online check-in page. After checking-in, you can print out your boarding pass and proceed directly to the security gates if you aren’t checking any baggage. If you have to check baggage be sure to stop by the Brussels Airlines counter.

Brussels Airlines Baggage Information & Restrictions

Checked Luggage Restrictions for Brussels Airlines

For those traveling Economy Class you will be allowed 1-2 items of checked baggage, not exceeding 20-23 kg per piece and with dimensions (L + W + H) not totaling more than 157 cm per piece. Economy Class baggage allowance varies based on your destination. For a full breakdown of checked baggage allowance based on destination, and potential fees associated with baggage, please visit Brussels Airlines’ Baggage Allowance Page.

For those traveling Business Class you will be allowed 1-2 items of checked baggage, not exceeding 30-32 kg per piece and with dimensions (L + W + H) not totaling more than 157 cm per piece. Business Class baggage allowance also varies based on your destination. For a full breakdown of checked baggage allowance based on destination, and potential fees associated with baggage, please visit Brussels Airlines’ Baggage Allowance Page.

Carry-On Baggage Restrictions for Brussels Airlines

Economy class passengers are allowed to carry 1 piece of baggage on the flight at no extra charge. The maximum weight for carry-on baggage must not exceed 6-12 kg, with a total dimension (L + W + H) of 118 cm. For full details of carry-on baggage allowances please visit Brussels Airlines’ Carry-on baggage page.

For those flying Business class, 2 pieces of carry-on luggage are allowed, with a maximum weight of 16 kg in total, and total dimensions (L + W + H) of 118 cm per bag.

Travelers may also take items for personal use into the cabin including laptops, cameras, purses, mp3 players, food, pillows, etc. For the complete list of allowed carry-on and personal items on Brussels Airlines please visit their Baggage Restrictions Page.

Brussels Airlines Special Luggage Requirements

Brussels Airlines allows passengers to take some non-traditional traveling items with them to their destinations including kites, bicycles and body boards. For more information on traveling with these special items, visit Brussels Airlines’ Baggage Allowance Page.

Brussels Airlines Seating Options

Brussels Airlines offers 2 options for seating on their flights:

Economy Class

Economy class seating on Brussels Airlines has a distance of 31 inches between seats. Seat facilities vary between aircraft and some seats on long-haul flights have audio consoles and individual seat back screens for entertainment purposes.

Business Class

Business class seating on Brussels Airlines has a distance of 62 inches between seats. Seat features vary between aircraft but the seats are wider and further apart than economy class seats. The central seat in a group of three is always kept free in business class. Seats on some flights have individual seat back screens for entertainment purposes.

Traveling with Pets on Brussels Airlines

Don’t forget Bonzo!

Flying with your pets can be a safe and fun experience if airline rules and regulations are followed. Live pets can only be transported to countries where the regulations of the country permit, and subject to the terms and conditions specified by that country. Pets can often travel on flights with you in the cabin, in the hold as checked baggage, or in the hold, as cargo. See Brussels Airlines’ Traveling with Pets.

Brussels Airlines In-flight Service, Beverages, and Meals

Dependant on the flight, and type of aircraft, Brussels Airlines offers a wide variety of food, beverage and entertainment options.

Economy Class offers an in-flight magazine and audio/video entertainment. On some flight the movies or TV programs are shown on overhead screens and on some they are on individual seat-back screens. b.light economy ticket holders may purchase from a selection of drinks, meals and snacks on board, whereas b.flex economy+ passengers have meals included in the price of their ticket.

Business Class offers entertainment options including in-flight magazines and audio/video entertainment either on individual or overhead screens. A glass of champagne is provided on boarding for long-haul passengers, and meals, snacks and beverages are available tailored to suit the flight.

Brussels Airlines Fleet

Brussels Airlines operates a fleet consisting mainly of BAE airplanes. Their fleet consists of Avro RJ85 and RJ100, Airbus A319 and 330, Boeing 737 and Embraer ERJ145 aircraft.

Brussels Airlines Lounges

Brussels Airlines lounges, including the Sunrise Lounge, are fully operational in Brussels.

Brussels Airlines lounge access is available to holders of business class tickets, as well as HON Circle, Senator, Frequent Traveler and Star Alliance Gold Card members. Holders of b.flex Economy tickets can also pay for access. Full details of lounge access can be found on the Brussels Airlines’ Lounge access page.