Brussels Airport starts work on €15 million quieter aircraft engine testing facility

Brussels Airport has begun construction of a new ground run-up enclosure (GRE) designed to significantly reduce noise from full-power aircraft engine tests following maintenance. The facility, representing an investment of more than €15 million, is scheduled for completion by the end of March 2027.

The U-shaped enclosure will feature 15-metre-high noise barriers, reducing noise levels by up to 10 decibels, depending on aircraft type and distance. Brussels Airport says this corresponds to a perceived halving of sound levels, with residents of Humelgem and Steenokkerzeel expected to benefit most.

Covering approximately 8,000 square metres, slightly more than a football pitch, the facility will be large enough to accommodate widebody aircraft including the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

Full-power engine tests are required following certain maintenance procedures to ensure aircraft safety and regulatory compliance. Until now, these tests have been conducted in the open. Brussels Airport carries out approximately 150 to 200 engine run-ups annually, restricted to between 07:00 and 22:00 to minimise nighttime disturbance.

Airport CEO Arnaud Feist said the investment combines the essential safety requirement of engine testing with efforts to reduce the airport’s impact on neighbouring communities.

Foundation work is now underway on a section of the apron where several obsolete buildings have been demolished. Paving and construction of the noise barriers will follow, with the airport saying the project will not affect normal flight operations.

The new enclosure forms part of Brussels Airport’s broader programme aimed at making its operations quieter and more sustainable while maintaining essential aircraft maintenance capabilities.