Belgian carrier benefits from increased capacity and stable operations, while geopolitical uncertainty and high fuel costs continue to weigh on its outlook.
Brussels Airlines has reported its strongest-ever third-quarter financial performance, achieving an adjusted EBIT of €84 million in the period from July to September 2026. The record result was driven primarily by increased capacity, passenger growth and more reliable operations.
During the third quarter, the Belgian airline welcomed 2.9 million passengers on more than 20,000 flights, representing year-on-year increases of 3.5% in passenger numbers and 1.7% in flight operations.
Operational stability played a key role in the improved financial performance. Brussels Airlines reduced its irregularity costs per passenger by 14% compared with the same period last year. Combined with increased capacity, this contributed to an adjusted EBIT that was 23.5% higher than in the third quarter of 2025 and 6% above the previous third-quarter record, set in 2024.
“For an airline, summer is the busiest time of year. While many people travel to enjoy a well-deserved vacation, our colleagues put their best foot forward to make sure our passengers can sit back and relax. I want to sincerely thank all Brussels Airlines employees for their efforts in the past few months. We have once again proven that when we operate as planned, the results are also there. Brussels Airlines is a robust airline that can deliver strong results, even in a challenging environment,” said Nina Öwerdieck, Chief Financial Officer of Brussels Airlines.
Network expansion and product improvements
Beyond its financial performance, Brussels Airlines also recorded several commercial and product highlights during the quarter.
The airline continued its traditional Tomorrowland party flights, while Cologne in Germany was added to its network through its cooperation with Deutsche Bahn. Brussels Airlines also introduced a new signature aperitif in Business Class as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the passenger experience.
Positive outlook, but challenges remain
Despite the record third-quarter performance, Brussels Airlines remains cautious about the months ahead.
The first half of 2026 proved challenging for the airline. Geopolitical instability contributed to elevated fuel prices, while an Ebola outbreak in East Africa and social unrest in Belgium, including strikes involving third parties, further affected operations and financial performance. As a result, the airline recorded a negative financial result for the first six months of the year.
The strong third-quarter performance has since brought Brussels Airlines back into positive year-to-date territory. Nevertheless, several external challenges remain unresolved.
The start of the fourth quarter has already brought further disruption, with an external strike resulting in flight cancellations and additional costs for the airline. Despite these setbacks, passenger demand remains robust, providing a positive signal for the remainder of the year.
Brussels Airlines expects business to develop positively in the fourth quarter, although the ongoing impact of geopolitical uncertainty and higher fuel costs continues to require careful management.
Cost discipline alongside strategic investments
To counter the continued pressure from additional fuel costs, Brussels Airlines is maintaining its cost-optimisation measures. At the same time, the airline remains committed to strategic investments aimed at improving its onboard product and overall passenger experience.
Planned initiatives include the rollout of Lufthansa Group Wi-Fi across the fleet, a complete renovation of the airline’s flagship lounge in Brussels and the introduction of new cabin interiors.
With a record-breaking third quarter behind it, Brussels Airlines enters the final months of 2026 on a stronger financial footing. However, the airline’s ability to maintain this momentum will depend on operational stability, cost developments and the wider geopolitical environment.