Construction has officially begun on the long-awaited “Luchthaventram” project, which will connect Brussels Airport with the Belgian capital and surrounding business districts.
On Monday 30 March, BESIX started works on the first phase of the project along the Brussels Ring (R0), under a contract awarded by De Werkvennootschap. The official launch was attended by Flemish Minister of Mobility and Public Works Annick De Ridder.
The new tram line will link Brussels with the airport and the business zone along the Leopold III-laan (A201). Once completed, the 12-kilometre route is expected to bring passengers from Brussels-North to the airport in just 30 minutes. The total construction period is estimated at three years.
Complex works along major transport corridors
The first phase focuses on the crossing of the tram line over the R0 and nearby railway infrastructure. It includes the construction of two major structures: a tram and bicycle viaduct over the Ring road, and a bridge over the railway line, connected by an embankment between the tracks and the access ramp towards Sint-Stevens-Woluwe.
The works are being carried out by a consortium including BESIX, STADSBADER CONTRACTORS and Victor Buyck Steel Construction. While BESIX and STADSBADER are responsible for concrete works, road infrastructure and access ramps, Victor Buyck will deliver the steel bridge structures.
Building in such a busy area presents significant challenges. The project is located alongside both the heavily trafficked Brussels Ring and the country’s busiest railway line. To minimise disruption, the bridge over the R0 will be installed in three sections launched over the motorway without stopping traffic. The railway bridge, meanwhile, will be slid into place during a strictly scheduled 72-hour rail closure.
Motorists on the Ring will face temporary lane narrowing and a reduced speed limit of 70 km/h over a limited stretch during the works.
Boosting airport accessibility
Beyond the tram infrastructure, the project also includes 13 kilometres of new cycling facilities, including four bridges and one tunnel, reinforcing its focus on sustainable mobility.
The new line is expected to significantly improve access to Brussels Airport for passengers, employees and commuters, while strengthening connections between the airport, surrounding business parks and the capital.
“Brussels Airport is a key international gateway and an important economic engine. This project will provide a strong, sustainable connection with the region and the capital,” said Minister Annick De Ridder.
For Brussels Airport Company, the tram line represents another step towards improving accessibility and reducing congestion around the airport.