Brussels Airlines carries 2.9 million passengers in a record third quarter of 2026

Brussels Airlines carried 2.9 million passengers between July and September 2026, 3.5% more than a year earlier, and reported a record operating result for the quarter, the Belgian airline said on 3 November. Its adjusted operating result rose 23.5% year on year and was 6% above its previous record quarter, in 2024.

The airline operated more than 20,000 flights in the period, up 1.7%, and says its irregularity costs per passenger fell by 14%. An external strike at the start of the quarter caused cancellations and a financial burden, according to the airline, but demand remained robust throughout the summer.

"Brussels Airlines is a robust airline that can deliver strong results, even in a challenging environment," said Nina Öwerdieck, the airline's chief financial officer. The airline says it expects a positive fourth quarter, while naming geopolitical instability and high fuel costs as ongoing challenges.

The release does not report load factor or punctuality figures and does not announce schedule changes. Passengers with winter bookings should continue to rely on the airline's own notices for any network or timetable news.