On the 31st of January, Air Belgium, the new regular Belgian airline, announced that it would establish its operating base at Brussels South Charleroi Airport (BSCA), the 3rd most punctual airport in the world, to ensure direct connections between Europe and China, with Hong-Kong as the first Asian destination.
In January 2017, the new Belgian airline Air Belgium established its hub at Charleroi’s airport with its fleet of four airplanes A340-300. The airport will have to substantially adapt its infrastructure: a Premium terminal will be created to meet the needs of business and premium class travelers. They will be able to use a dedicated parking lot before check-in and be on the plane within 20 minutes, including the time needed for Border and Customs checks and boarding. There will also be a brand new Business Lounge for passengers who wish to work or relax in a quiet area. A one year long construction will begin in May to guarantee a quality service to the airport’s customers.
Air Belgium CEO, Niky Terzakis, decided to set up its company in Charleroi rather than in Brussels because of its strengths: its accessibility, quality and capacity of services, competitive costs and desire to expand into a leading international airport. This is a win-win collaboration since it allows CEO Jean-Jacques Cloquet to strengthen the international position of the BSCA, even though this airport is already visited by Belgians from all regions and is attracting 60% of international passengers and 31% of business travelers. The new agreement will enable Charleroi to become a real hub connected to big European capitals and to the whole world.
Besides, this new development will alleviate traffic congestion around Brussels. Forget about the stress over missing a flight because of traffic jams. And for those who do not have a car but wish to go to Hong-Kong from Charleroi, it is possible to go to the airport with one of Flibco’s shuttles departing from many cities of Belgium, Northern France or Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
The establishment of Air Belgium in Charleroi should create around 600 jobs and if you want to join the adventure, the Belgian airline is still looking for hiring staff on its web site.