Brussels Airlines marks a century of connecting Belgium and Africa, reinforcing its role as a key player in the region. The airline traces its roots to 1925, when the first flight from Belgium to Africa took off. Over the years, advancements in aviation technology have transformed the journey, making it faster and more efficient.

The first flight to Africa departed from Brussels on February 12, 1925, and reached Kinshasa after an arduous 51-day journey. The 8,000 km flight laid the foundation for strong air ties between Belgium and Africa. In 1935, Belgian airline Sabena introduced scheduled passenger flights to Kinshasa, cutting travel time to five and a half days. By 1960, nonstop jet flights reduced the trip to mere hours, marking a new era in aviation.

Following Sabena’s bankruptcy in 2001, Brussels Airlines emerged as Belgium’s new national carrier. The airline continued to expand its footprint in Africa, making it a crucial part of its operations. Today, Brussels Airlines serves 18 destinations across the continent. It remains committed to Africa, even being the only airline to operate flights to Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone during the 2014 Ebola outbreak.

Brussels Airlines continues to grow its Africa network. This summer, it will operate up to 56 weekly flights, a 10% increase from last year. The airline also introduced flights to Nairobi in June 2024, strengthening its position in sub-Saharan Africa. By March 2025, Brussels Airlines will offer daily nonstop flights to Kinshasa.

As the airline enters its next century, it plans to expand its long-haul fleet to 13 aircraft. By 2027, it will introduce upgraded cabin interiors across all travel classes. Brussels Airlines, as Lufthansa Group’s African Competence Center, plays a vital role in connecting the continent to Europe. With its growing network and modern fleet, the airline aims to enhance connectivity and customer experience for years to come.

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