Belgium Faces Reduced Winter Air Connectivity After Ryanair Network Cuts

Belgium’s air travel landscape is expected to change significantly next winter as a major low-cost airline prepares to reduce its presence in the country. A large-scale adjustment to scheduled services has been outlined, with capacity reductions planned across key Belgian airports. The changes are expected to affect winter travel options, particularly for passengers relying on budget carriers for regional and short-haul journeys. The developments come as adjustments to passenger taxation are scheduled at both national and local levels.

The planned reduction is projected to remove around one million seats from Belgium’s winter flight market. The impact is expected to be concentrated at Brussels Airport in Zaventem and Brussels South Charleroi Airport, which together account for a substantial share of low-cost traffic in the country. The revised network structure is scheduled to take effect during the 2026–2027 winter season.

Route Suspensions and Capacity Reductions Confirmed

A total of 20 routes are scheduled to be suspended from the airline’s Belgian network next winter. Of these, 13 routes are planned to be withdrawn from Charleroi Airport, while seven routes are set to be removed from Brussels Airport. The changes represent a significant reshaping of the airline’s operations in the Brussels area.

In addition to route suspensions, a notable reduction in based aircraft has been confirmed. Five aircraft are planned to be removed from the Charleroi base as part of the winter schedule revision. This aircraft withdrawal forms a central part of the overall capacity reduction and contributes to the estimated one million seat decrease across the season.

Overall capacity in the Brussels area is expected to decline by 22% during the winter period. The adjustment reflects a broad scaling back of operations rather than isolated route changes. The airline has also indicated that the removal of aircraft represents a substantial reduction in local investment, estimated at approximately $500 million.

Travel Demand and the Winter Tourist Landscape

Winter travel patterns are often shaped by route availability and pricing structures, particularly for leisure-focused journeys. Changes to airline capacity can influence how tourists plan seasonal travel, including destination choice and timing. The availability of low-cost flights has traditionally played a role in supporting short winter breaks and cross-border travel within Europe.

As winter schedules are finalised, adjustments to flight networks can alter the range of options accessible to travellers. Reduced seat availability can affect planning flexibility and frequency of services, especially during peak travel periods. These factors are closely watched within the travel sector during seasonal transitions.

Tourism Connectivity and Passenger Access Considerations

Tourism connectivity is closely linked to airport accessibility and airline network density. When route portfolios are adjusted, the overall ease of travel to and from a destination may change. For tourists, connectivity influences not only travel costs but also scheduling convenience and travel time options.

Winter connectivity plays a role in maintaining steady tourist flows outside peak summer months. Any reduction in available services can reshape travel dynamics during this period. As airlines align schedules with operating conditions, tourism stakeholders often assess how such changes interact with broader seasonal travel trends.

Tax Policy Changes Affecting Air Travel

The planned network reductions follow changes to passenger taxation in Belgium. The federal government has outlined an increase in the national embarkation tax, commonly known as the flight tax. From 2027, the tax is set to rise to €10 per departing passenger, representing a doubling of the level previously applied to longer routes.

Earlier in the year, a tiered system had been introduced. Under that structure, flights under 500 kilometres were charged €10, while longer flights were subject to a €5 levy. The revised approach removes the lower band by increasing the charge on longer routes, effectively harmonising the rate across all departing passengers.

At the local level, additional charges have also been proposed. The Charleroi City Council has put forward a plan to introduce a €3 fee per departing passenger starting next year. The proposed charge is intended to apply at the city level alongside the national tax framework.

Impact on Brussels and Charleroi Airports

Brussels Airport and Brussels South Charleroi Airport are expected to experience the most visible effects of the planned adjustments. Both airports serve as important gateways for travellers using low-cost carriers, particularly during the winter season. The removal of routes and aircraft is expected to alter traffic volumes and seasonal capacity levels.

Charleroi Airport is set to see the larger share of route suspensions, with 13 services scheduled for removal. Brussels Airport will also see a reduction, with seven routes planned to be discontinued. Together, these changes account for the majority of the one million seats expected to be removed from the Belgian market.

The winter schedule changes reflect a broader reassessment of operational viability under the revised tax environment. Future capacity growth in Belgium has been described as economically challenging under the combined national and local levy structure.

Outlook for Winter Travel Planning

With the winter season approaching, travellers planning trips to or from Belgium may encounter a different range of options compared with previous years. Network adjustments of this scale can influence booking patterns and seasonal travel planning. The reduced availability of low-cost services may be particularly noticeable during peak winter travel periods.

Airports, tourism stakeholders, and passengers are expected to monitor how the revised schedules align with travel demand. As winter travel planning continues, the reshaped flight network will form part of the broader context influencing tourism movement and connectivity during the colder months.

Image Source: AI

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Antwerp Tourism Surges as TUI fly Belgium Axes Three Key Summer Routes from Deurne Airport: All You Need to Know

Antwerp and Tenerife tourism are facing potential disruption after TUI fly Belgium announced significant reductions to its summer 2026 schedule at Antwerp’s Deurne Airport. The airline will cancel flights to Ibiza, Antalya and Crete, limiting operations to a single Embraer E195-E2 aircraft serving just four destinations: Tenerife, Malaga, Alicante and Mallorca. This decision prioritizes routes with established demand from second-home owners and reflects a strategic shift toward larger hubs like Brussels.

The changes come after challenging years for Deurne Airport, where passenger numbers fell significantly, raising questions about the sustainability of regional aviation and its role in supporting local tourism economies.

TUI fly focuses on profitable Spanish sun destinations

TUI fly Belgium’s revised summer 2026 programme at Deurne Airport concentrates exclusively on high-performing Spanish routes that demonstrate consistent demand from Belgian travelers. Tenerife, Malaga, Alicante and Mallorca will continue with the single-aircraft deployment previously used for winter operations, ensuring year-round connectivity to popular sun destinations.

This focus aligns with patterns where leisure routes to the Canary and Balearic Islands maintain stronger load factors and pricing power compared to more seasonal or competitive markets. For Antwerp tourism, the decision means fewer options for short-haul holidays, potentially pushing local travelers toward Brussels Airport or alternative carriers.

Ibiza, Antalya and Crete routes discontinued

The most notable casualties are Ibiza, Antalya and Crete, three classic summer leisure destinations that will no longer feature in TUI fly Belgium’s Deurne schedule for 2026. These routes, which typically attract party-goers, families and beach holidaymakers, have been deprioritized in favor of capacity consolidation at Brussels Airport, where economies of scale support more frequent flights and competitive fares.

For destinations like Ibiza tourism, the loss represents reduced direct access from Belgium’s second city, though travelers can still reach the Balearic party island via larger hubs. Similarly, Antalya and Crete tourism lose a regional entry point, potentially affecting group bookings and lower-fare segments that previously flew from Deurne.

Deurne Airport’s passenger decline pressures regional tourism

Antwerp’s Deurne Airport experienced a twenty percent drop in passenger numbers during 2024, handling only 208,845 travelers amid operational disruptions including spare parts shortages that forced flight diversions to Brussels. These challenges delayed the 2025 summer season start and contributed to uncertainty around the airport’s leisure role.

The reduced TUI fly deployment for 2026 is expected to further suppress passenger figures, limiting Deurene’s capacity to around one aircraft’s worth of weekly rotations. This contraction impacts  Antwerp’s tourism ecosystem, where regional flights traditionally supported quick getaways to Mediterranean hotspots without the drive to Brussels or Charleroi.

Brussels Airport gains as capacity shifts to capital hub

TUI fly Belgium’s strategy redirects Ibiza, Antalya and Crete capacity to Brussels Airport, where stronger demand supports higher aircraft utilisation and better yields. The capital hub’s larger catchment area and infrastructure advantages make it the preferred base for seasonal leisure expansion.

This shift reinforces Brussels’ dominance in Belgian tourism aviation, drawing passengers from Antwerp and surrounding provinces who prioritize frequency over proximity. For Antwerp tourism, the change underscores the challenges facing secondary airports, where limited scale struggles against major hubs’ economies and marketing power.

Operational challenges shaped TUI fly’s Antwerp strategy

Recent performance at Deurne Airport was hampered by technical issues, including aircraft grounding due to parts shortages that shifted operations to Brussels for extended periods in 2024. These disruptions not only reduced passenger confidence but also highlighted the vulnerabilities of single-airline dependency at smaller facilities.

TUI fly Belgium’s decision to extend its winter one-aircraft model into summer reflects commercial realities: prioritising profitability over volume in a market where Brussels offers superior demand density. The Embraer E195-E2’s efficiency suits the remaining Tenerife-Malaga-Alicante-Mallorca rota, but limits overall seat capacity and route diversity.

Tourism implications for Antwerp and sun destinations

The summer 2026 cutbacks challenge Antwerp tourism by reducing convenient access to popular holiday markets, potentially dampening local travel agency business and second-home traffic. Residents may increasingly drive to Brussels or opt for low-cost carriers at Charleroi, fragmenting the regional market.

For surviving destinations, the focus on Tenerife, Malaga, Alicante and Mallorca secures Belgian demand but at lower volumes, while Ibiza, Antalya and Crete face reduced arrivals from this secondary gateway. Regional tourism boards may need to intensify marketing toward Brussels to offset the loss.

Overall, Deurne Airport’s contraction signals broader pressures on European regional aviation, where tourism routes increasingly consolidate at major hubs, reshaping access patterns for smaller cities like Antwerp.

Image Credit: TUI Belgium

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Germany Joins France, Portugal, And Belgium In Air Canada’s Strategic Expansion To Europe, Unlocking New Travel Opportunities For Summer 2026

As part of Air Canada’s strategic expansion to Europe in the summer of 2026, Germany will join France, Portugal, and Belgium, opening up new travel options for Canadians. By adding nonstop flights to Berlin, Nantes, Ponta Delgada, and Brussels, this expansion broadens the airline’s European reach. By adding these new routes, Air Canada is expanding its transatlantic network, improving access to important European locations, and satisfying the increasing demand for seamless travel. As a result, both leisure and business travelers will have exciting new ways to discover Europe.

Air Canada is set to expand its trans-Atlantic network significantly for Summer 2026, introducing four new European destinations that further solidify its role as a leading player in North American aviation. This move highlights the airline’s commitment to enhancing its global connectivity, offering travelers more options and increasing its presence on the highly competitive trans-Atlantic market.

The new routes will operate from three major Canadian hubs, providing a variety of direct connections to key European cities, allowing Canadian travelers to enjoy smoother and more convenient travel options.

New Nonstop Routes from Montréal, Toronto, and Halifax

Starting Summer 2026, Air Canada will launch new nonstop flights from Montréal, Toronto, and Halifax, bringing four exciting European destinations into the airline’s growing portfolio. From Montréal, passengers will now have direct access to Berlin, Germany’s lively capital, and Nantes, a charming city in France’s Loire Valley. Both routes will be serviced three times a week during the summer season, making it easier for travelers to explore these cultural and historical hubs in Europe.

In addition, Toronto will benefit from a new connection to Ponta Delgada in the Azores, Portugal’s stunning archipelago, which has become a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking to experience pristine landscapes. This new route complements Toronto’s extensive international network, which continues to expand as the airline focuses on offering passengers more options for European travel.

Halifax, which already boasts a popular link to London Heathrow, will gain its second international route, with direct flights to Brussels, the capital of Belgium. The addition of Brussels further enhances Halifax’s growing position as an international gateway and adds yet another route connecting Canada to Europe’s most dynamic cities.

Expanding Air Canada’s Transatlantic Network

This expansion builds upon Air Canada’s recent growth, which includes new routes to Palma de Mallorca and Sicily from Montréal, Shanghai and Budapest from Toronto, as well as year-round service to Bangkok from Vancouver. By the summer of 2026, Air Canada will boast the second-largest trans-Atlantic network in North America, in terms of the number of destinations offered. This places the airline in an ideal position to capitalize on the increasing demand for transatlantic travel, offering Canadian travelers direct access to some of Europe’s most sought-after destinations.

Air Canada’s enhanced European network promises to further strengthen economic and tourism ties between Canada and Europe. By providing nonstop connections to these new cities, the airline will cater to the growing demand for international travel, while supporting tourism and business exchanges across the Atlantic. These new services are expected to attract both leisure travelers seeking cultural experiences and business travelers looking to connect with major commercial hubs.

A Modern Fleet to Enhance the Travel Experience

To support these new routes, Air Canada will deploy its modern fleet of aircraft, designed to enhance the travel experience for all passengers. The Montréal-Berlin route will be serviced by the state-of-the-art Airbus A321XLR, which features lie-flat business-class seats, offering a premium travel experience for those on long-haul flights. Other services will be operated on narrowbody aircraft, equipped with both premium and economy cabins to cater to a variety of traveler preferences.

By choosing advanced aircraft for these new routes, Air Canada aims to ensure a comfortable and efficient journey for passengers, making these flights a top choice for those flying between Canada and Europe. The A321XLR, in particular, is renowned for its fuel efficiency and long-range capabilities, making it an ideal choice for transatlantic flights.

Air Canada’s Growing Global Reach

With these new additions, Air Canada will connect Canada to more than 126 global destinations by Summer 2026. The airline will offer up to 155,000 weekly seats across its Atlantic, Pacific, and South American markets, making it one of the largest carriers in terms of international capacity. This expansion is part of Air Canada’s broader strategy to increase its global presence and meet the growing demand for travel.

Additionally, the airline is set to resume its seasonal Montréal-Tel Aviv route, giving passengers more options to explore key destinations in the Middle East. This reintroduction of service to Tel Aviv further reflects Air Canada’s focus on diversifying its network and offering passengers more international routes to choose from.

Booking and Travel Dates

All flights to these new destinations are now available for booking, with seasonal operations running from June to October 2026. Air Canada’s commitment to providing travelers with the convenience of direct, nonstop flights to these exciting European cities is expected to drive demand and enhance the overall travel experience.

Germany joins France, Portugal, and Belgium in Air Canada’s strategic expansion to Europe for Summer 2026, introducing new nonstop flights to Berlin, Nantes, Ponta Delgada, and Brussels. This expansion enhances connectivity, offering Canadian travelers more direct access to key European destinations and supporting the growing demand for transatlantic travel.

In summary, Air Canada’s expansion into new European destinations for Summer 2026 not only strengthens its position as a leading carrier on the trans-Atlantic market but also opens up exciting opportunities for travelers seeking direct access to some of Europe’s most popular cities. Whether traveling for business or leisure, Air Canada’s new routes promise a more convenient, efficient, and comfortable way to explore Europe from Canada.

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London Joins Paris, Lisse, Brussels, Vienna, and Palermo in Celebrating Europe’s Most Stunning, Historic, and Breathtaking Botanical Gardens of All Time – A Blooming Legacy Awaits!

London now joins Paris, Lisse, Brussels, Vienna, and Palermo in celebrating Europe’s most stunning, historic, and breathtaking botanical gardens. These cities, each home to some of the world’s finest green spaces, offer visitors a chance to explore diverse collections of plants, lush landscapes, and rich histories. From the iconic Royal Botanic Gardens in London to the vibrant Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, these gardens represent a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Historic in their origins, they have become landmarks in the botanical world. Each garden plays a crucial role in conservation, education, and preserving plant species. Whether strolling through the manicured paths of Vienna’s University Botanic Garden or enjoying the seasonal blooms in Brussels’ Royal Greenhouses, these green oases are much more than beautiful. They are a blooming legacy, inviting all to connect with nature and learn about the vital role plants play in our lives.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – London, England

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, commonly known as Kew Gardens, is one of the most famous botanical institutions in the world. Located in southwest London, Kew Gardens spans 132 hectares and houses a collection of tens of thousands of plant species, making it a vital hub for plant conservation and scientific research.

History and Heritage of Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens was formally established in 1759, though plants have been cultivated there since the 1700s. Initially part of a royal pleasure garden, it was transformed into a scientific garden under the guidance of influential botanists and explorers. Over time, Kew became a major site for botanical research and education. In recognition of its significant contributions to science, Kew Gardens was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.

Iconic Glasshouses and Structures

One of the most remarkable features of Kew Gardens is its collection of historic glasshouses. The Palm House, built in the mid-1800s, is a stunning example of Victorian engineering. It shelters an indoor rainforest filled with tropical plants from around the world. Another iconic structure is the Temperate House, the largest surviving Victorian glasshouse. It houses rare and endangered plants from temperate regions. Kew also boasts the beautiful Princess of Wales Conservatory, which displays plants from diverse climates, and the majestic Great Pagoda.

Science, Conservation, and Education

Kew Gardens is at the forefront of global plant research. Its Millennium Seed Bank at Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex, houses billions of seeds from plants worldwide, ensuring the preservation of biodiversity. Kew scientists conduct critical research on plant genetics and study the threats that climate change poses to plant life. The herbarium at Kew contains millions of preserved plant and fungal specimens, contributing to scientific studies and conservation planning.

Visitor Experience

Kew Gardens attracts millions of visitors annually, who come to explore its glasshouses, themed gardens, educational exhibits, and seasonal events. It is not only a tourist destination but also an educational institution dedicated to plant conservation, offering guided tours and events throughout the year.

Jardin des Plantes – Paris, France

Located in the heart of Paris, the Jardin des Plantes is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. Founded in 1626, it was initially created as a royal medicinal plant garden. Today, it serves as a major centre for botanical research and a peaceful escape in the bustling city.

History and Purpose of Jardin des Plantes

The garden was established to cultivate plants used in medicine and science. Over the years, it became affiliated with the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle, France’s national natural history museum, and has evolved into one of the most important botanical gardens in the world.

Plant Collections and Layout

The garden covers 28 hectares and houses a vast collection of plants, including tropical plants, alpine flora, roses, and medicinal herbs. Its greenhouses display exotic species that thrive in warmer climates, and its formal beds showcase plants from around the world, creating a beautiful and educational landscape for visitors.

Scientific and Cultural Features

Jardin des Plantes is more than just a garden. It also includes several museums, such as those focused on natural history, evolution, and paleontology. Additionally, the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes, one of the oldest zoos in the world, adds to the garden’s appeal. Visitors can stroll through the well-maintained grounds, enjoy the unique plant collections, and explore the educational exhibits that highlight the importance of biodiversity.

Visitor Experience

Open year-round, Jardin des Plantes offers peaceful walking paths, vibrant floral displays, and an opportunity to learn about global plant diversity in the heart of Paris. It is the perfect destination for those interested in both botany and history.

Keukenhof Gardens – Lisse, Netherlands

Keukenhof, located in Lisse, near Amsterdam, is often referred to as the most beautiful spring garden in the world. Known for its stunning floral displays, it attracts millions of visitors each year.

History and Setting of Keukenhof Gardens

Keukenhof was established in 1949 by Dutch flower bulb growers to showcase the Netherlands’ world-renowned tulip industry. It is set in the Dune and Bulb Region, a unique area known for its vast flower fields. The garden covers 32 hectares and is one of the largest flower gardens in the world.

Floral Displays and Colours

Each spring, Keukenhof’s 7 million bulbs are planted by hand, creating breathtaking displays of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, lilies, and other spring flowers. The gardens are a riot of colour, with over 100 different varieties of tulips on display, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Seasonal Attraction

Keukenhof is open to the public only during the spring season, from March to May. The peak bloom time is usually in mid-April when the gardens are in full colour. This seasonal opening makes it a highly anticipated event for flower lovers from around the world.

Visitor Experience

Visitors to Keukenhof can explore its themed gardens, enjoy exhibitions, and take in the spectacular floral displays. The garden also hosts special events that celebrate Dutch horticulture, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken – Brussels, Belgium

The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are part of the Belgian royal estate and offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of greenhouse design and plant collections. Located in Brussels, these greenhouses were designed by the architect Alphonse Balat in the late 19th century for King Leopold II.

Architecture and History of Laeken Greenhouses

The greenhouses are an impressive blend of glass and iron, designed to showcase rare and tropical plants. The complex includes several sections, such as the Palm Greenhouse, the Azalea Greenhouse, and the Mirror Greenhouse, each home to different plant species.

Plant Collections and Layout

The Royal Greenhouses house an extensive collection of tropical and subtropical plants that would not survive in Belgium’s climate. Visitors can explore these beautifully designed structures and enjoy the peaceful outdoor gardens surrounding the greenhouses.

Seasonal Public Access

The Royal Greenhouses are open to the public only for a few weeks each year, typically in the spring. During this time, visitors can marvel at the stunning plant displays and learn about the royal history of the gardens.

Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna – Vienna, Austria

The Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna is one of the oldest and most significant botanical gardens in Europe. It serves as both a research facility and a public garden, showcasing a diverse collection of plants from around the world.

Plant Diversity and Study

The garden is home to a wide variety of plants, including critically endangered species. Many of these plants are studied by academic researchers and used for teaching purposes. The garden also serves as a habitat for wildlife, making it a place of beauty and educational value.

Research and Education

As part of the University of Vienna’s Faculty of Life Sciences, the botanical garden plays a key role in botanical studies and conservation efforts. It provides hands-on learning experiences for students and visitors, helping to promote the importance of plant conservation and biodiversity.

Orto Botanico di Palermo – Palermo, Italy

The Orto Botanico di Palermo is one of Italy’s most important and historic botanical gardens. Located in Sicily, it features over 12,000 plant species and offers a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the region.

Collection and Layout

The garden is laid out according to classical botany principles and includes plants from Mediterranean, tropical, and subtropical climates. Visitors can explore themed sections, such as the Calidarium and Tepidarium, which house plants from warm climates.

Mediterranean and Exotic Flora

The Orto Botanico is a unique space that combines Mediterranean and exotic plants, providing a fascinating look at how different species thrive in varied environments. Its layout and plant collections make it a must-visit for those interested in botany and horticulture.

Europe’s botanical gardens are more than just beautiful spaces – they are vital centres for plant research, conservation, and education. From the towering glasshouses of Kew Gardens to the vibrant tulip displays in Keukenhof, these gardens offer visitors a chance to connect with nature, learn about plant diversity, and witness the beauty of the world’s flora. Whether you’re a botany enthusiast, a tourist, or simply someone looking to enjoy a peaceful day in nature, these gardens offer something for everyone. Each garden tells a unique story, blending history, culture, and science to create experiences that will leave visitors in awe.

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