Business Aviation Flight Operations In Belgium

Belgium’s aviation sector has been growing steadily, with more passengers and cargo being handled each year. The number of flights is also on the rise, and the fleet includes a mix of different aircraft types. Safety standards are high, and there have been significant efforts to reduce environmental impacts like CO2 emissions and noise pollution. Overall, the sector is thriving and continuously improving in various aspects.

Belgium’s Aviation Operation Profiles

In 2023, Belgium’s airports experienced significant growth in passenger traffic, handling approximately 32.5 million passengers, reflecting a 7.2% increase compared to the previous year. This upward trend indicates a robust recovery in air travel demand as the country continues to strengthen its position as a key European hub for both business and tourism.

Cargo traffic also saw positive developments, with total throughput reaching around 1.7 million metric tons in 2023, marking a 3.5% growth year-over-year. This growth underscores Belgium’s strategic importance in global logistics, supported by its well-connected airport infrastructure and efficient cargo operations.

In terms of flight operations, Belgium recorded 285,000 flight movements in 2023, which represents a 4.8% rise from 2022. This increase in flight activity is a testament to the resilience of the aviation sector and its ability to meet the demands of both passenger and cargo traffic.

The fleet registered in Belgium comprises over 500 aircraft, with approximately 60% being narrow-body aircraft and 40% wide-body aircraft. This diverse fleet composition supports a wide range of operations, catering to both short-haul and long-haul routes.

Belgium is committed to maintaining high safety standards, achieving an impressive compliance rate of 98.5% with EASA regulations. This dedication to safety enhances confidence in the aviation sector and ensures that operations adhere to rigorous European standards.

Moreover, the aviation sector in Belgium has made strides in reducing its environmental impact, achieving a 12% reduction in CO2 emissions over the past five years. Noise pollution levels have also decreased by 8% during the same period, reflecting the industry’s commitment to sustainability and responsible operations.

Here are the top 5 international airports in Belgium, which contribute significantly to this aviation profile:

• Brussels Airport (IATA: BRU, ICAO: EBBR)
• Brussels South Charleroi Airport (IATA: CRL, ICAO: EBCI)
• Liège Airport (IATA: LGG, ICAO: EBLG)
• Antwerp International Airport (IATA: ANR, ICAO: EBAW)
• Ostend-Bruges International Airport (IATA: OST, ICAO: EBSO)

Brussels Airport (IATA: BRU, ICAO: EBBR) Flight Operations

Brussels Airport (BRU), located in Zaventem, is the largest airport in Belgium. It features 109 gates spread across multiple terminals, providing extensive business facilities such as lounges, meeting rooms, and workspaces. In 2023, the airport handled approximately 34.5 million passengers, a 7.2% increase from the previous year. Cargo throughput reached 776,000 metric tons, reflecting a 3.5% growth. The airport operates three runways: 07L/25R, 07R/25L, and 01/19. These runways are equipped with advanced Instrument Landing System (ILS) Category III technology, allowing for operations in low visibility conditions. Additionally, the runways feature high-intensity LED lighting systems, which enhance operational efficiency and safety. Recent upgrades include the transition to all-LED runway and approach lighting, further improving the airport’s operational capabilities.

Brussels South Charleroi Airport (IATA: CRL, ICAO: EBCI) Flight Operations

Brussels South Charleroi Airport, located in Gosselies, serves as a significant hub for low-cost carriers. The airport has 25 gates and has business amenities such as VIP lounges and conference facilities. In 2022, it served 8.2 million passengers, marking a significant 120.34% increase from 2021. While cargo operations are more limited compared to Brussels Airport, they are steadily growing. The airport has a single runway, 07/25, which is 3,200 meters long. This runway is equipped with ILS Category III technology, supporting operations in low visibility conditions. The runway was recently extended and upgraded to accommodate larger aircraft and improve operational capacity. The lighting systems include high-intensity runway lights and Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPI), ensuring safe and efficient operations.

Slot Coordination at Belgium Airports

Belgium Slot Coordination (BSC) is responsible for the allocation of airport slots at Brussels Airport, the only coordinated airport in Belgium. Slot allocation is essential to manage airport capacity and avoid congestion. The process involves several steps:

1. Slot Request Submission

• Submitting slot requests through the Online Coordination System (OCS) or via email to BSC.
• Requesting should include detailed flight schedules, aircraft type, and intended operation times.

2. Slot Allocation

• Slots are allocated based on the Worldwide Airport Slot Guidelines (WASG) principles, prioritizing historical precedence (grandfather rights) and new entrant considerations.
• The allocation process ensures optimal use of available capacity while minimizing delays and congestion.

3. Slot Monitoring and Compliance

• BSC monitors slot usage to ensure compliance with allocated times.
• Non-compliance can result in penalties or loss of slot rights.

4. Coordination Parameters

• Coordination parameters include runway capacity, terminal capacity, and apron space.
• These parameters are reviewed periodically to reflect changes in airport infrastructure and traffic demand.

Required Documents for Flight Operators

For Scheduled Operations

1. Operating License

• Valid operating license issued by the Belgian Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA).
• Proof of adequate insurance coverage.

2. Flight Schedule

• Detailed flight schedule submitted to BSC for slot allocation.
• Schedule must include aircraft type, frequency, and intended operation times.

3. Aircraft Registration

• Aircraft must be registered in Belgium or have appropriate permissions for foreign-registered aircraft.

4. General Declaration (GenDec)

• Submission of GenDec for all flights, including crew and passenger details.

For Non-Scheduled Operations

1. Landing Permit

• Non-scheduled operators must obtain a landing permit from the BCAA.
• Permit application should include flight details, aircraft type, and purpose of the flight.

2. Slot Request

• Submission of slot request to BSC, similar to scheduled operations.
• Non-scheduled flights are subject to slot availability and may have lower priority compared to scheduled flights.

3. General Declaration (GenDec)

• Required for all non-scheduled flights, detailing crew and passenger information.

4. Insurance Documentation

• Proof of adequate insurance coverage for the aircraft and operations.

This overview outlines the slot coordination process and necessary documentation for flight operations at Belgium’s major airports, ensuring efficient and compliant operations. For further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact Just Aviation team.

Overflight and Landing Permits for International Operations in Belgium

Belgium enforces specific protocols for official visits involving state, governmental, civilian, or military flights, requiring diplomatic overflight and landing clearances for such missions. Notably, an overfly permit is not required for most flights, except for state flights (governmental, civilian, or military) that necessitate these diplomatic clearances. The “International Transport Policy” Directorate (B4) of the FPS Foreign Affairs is responsible for managing these requests, operating separately from the Protocol Directorate. Whether a senior official arrives via state, civilian, or military aircraft, obtaining diplomatic clearances through B4 is mandatory.

To initiate the process, requests must include the necessary civil or military flight forms and detailed flight plans. These requests should be communicated via verbal note and email to FPS Foreign Affairs at least three working days prior to the scheduled mission. It is also essential to copy the Protocol Directorate in all correspondence to ensure compliance with the established protocols.

Important Belgium Aviation Regulations and Rules

Belgium has specific aviation regulations and rules that flight operators must adhere to, as outlined by the Belgian Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA). Here are some key regulations unique to Belgium:

1. Visual Flight Rules (VFR)

• VFR Flights at Aerodromes: VFR flights are not permitted to take off or land at an aerodrome within a Control Zone or enter the Aerodrome Traffic Zone when the reported meteorological conditions are below a ceiling of 1500 feet or when ground visibility is less than 5 kilometers.
• VFR Flights at Night: VFR flights at night are authorized under specific conditions, including the submission of a flight plan and maintaining two-way radio communication. The visibility and distance from cloud minima must be met, and the ceiling should not be less than 1500 feet.

2. Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)

• IFR Operations: All IFR flights must comply with the general rules of the air and specific local provisions. Pilots must be familiar with all available information appropriate to the intended operation, including weather reports and forecasts.

3. Special VFR Flights

• Authorization: Special VFR flights may be authorized to operate within a Control Zone, subject to an Air Traffic Control clearance. These flights are typically allowed under lower visibility conditions than standard VFR flights.

4. Minimum Heights

• Flight Over Congested Areas: Except for take-off or landing, or by permission from the BCAA, aircraft must not be flown over congested areas of cities, towns, or settlements at a height that would not allow a safe landing in the event of an emergency.

5. Night Flight Restrictions

• Altitude Requirements: Flights between 2200 and 0459 local time should be performed at Flight Level 050 or above whenever practicable, except for helicopters.

These regulations ensure the safe and efficient operation of flights within Belgium’s airspace, reflecting the country’s commitment to maintaining high safety standards and operational efficiency. If you need more specific details or have any other questions, feel free to ask!

Belgium International Airports Ground Handling Operations

Just Aviation provides comprehensive ground handling services at Belgium’s busiest airports, ensuring seamless and efficient operations for business aviation. At Brussels Airport (BRU), Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), Liège Airport (LGG), Antwerp International Airport (ANR), and Ostend-Bruges International Airport (OST), our handling solutions are meticulously tailored to meet the unique requirements of private and corporate aircraft. We offer a full spectrum of ramp services, including aircraft marshaling, pushback, refueling, and de-icing, alongside passenger and crew assistance such as VIP lounge access. Every aspect of our ground operations is executed with precision and compliance.

We prioritize efficient turnaround times through highly coordinated aircraft handling, utilizing advanced Ground Service Equipment (GSE) to minimize delays. Our team adheres to stringent international standards, incorporating the latest updates from IATA’s Airport Handling Manual (AHM) and complying with local aviation regulations to ensure a safe, efficient, and reliable service. By partnering with Just Aviation, operators can concentrate on their core business while we manage the technical and operational complexities of ground handling at these strategic locations.