Brussels Airlines posts €70 million operating loss in first half of 2026

International

Higher fuel prices, strikes and weaker demand on East African routes weighed on earnings despite growth in passenger traffic

Brussels Airlines reported an adjusted EBIT loss of €70 million in the first six months of 2026, as rising fuel costs, industrial action and operational disruptions offset gains in passenger numbers and revenue. The result represents a decline of around 50 percent compared with the same period last year.

The Belgian carrier transported 4.5 million passengers on 34,200 flights during the first half of the year. Passenger numbers increased by 8.1 percent year-on-year, while the number of flights rose by 5.5 percent.

Fuel costs and operational disruptions hit results

According to the airline, tensions in the Middle East drove up oil prices, increasing fuel expenses by €64 million compared with the first half of 2025.

Brussels Airlines also cited the Ebola outbreak in parts of East Africa as a factor affecting performance. The health situation weakened demand on affected routes and created operational challenges through travel restrictions and crew scheduling issues.

Industrial action in Belgium added further pressure. Strikes and protests, including disruptions at Brussels Airport and a work stoppage by Belgian air traffic controllers, reduced earnings by an additional €3 million.

Long-haul expansion put on hold

In light of the weaker financial performance, Brussels Airlines has suspended plans to expand its long-haul fleet in 2027.

The airline had intended to add two Airbus A330 aircraft but will now maintain its long-haul fleet at 11 aircraft. Management cited lower-than-expected profitability, recurring strike action in Belgium and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty as the main reasons for postponing the expansion.