I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a seasoned expert in hospitality with a deep background in travel and tourism. Her insights into entertainment and events, particularly expos and conferences, make her the perfect person to discuss the exciting developments at Brussels Airport. Today, we’re diving into the construction of a new drop-off zone, a project that marks the beginning of the ambitious Hub 3.0 initiative. Our conversation will explore how this new zone aims to enhance passenger experiences, improve traffic flow, and fit into the broader vision for the airport’s future, alongside other transformative infrastructure upgrades.
Can you walk us through what sparked the idea for a new drop-off zone at Brussels Airport?
The inspiration behind the new drop-off zone really comes down to the need to accommodate a growing number of passengers and improve their overall experience. Brussels Airport has seen steady increases in traffic over the years, and the current drop-off area near car park P1, while functional, just isn’t equipped to handle future demand efficiently. We wanted a space that not only offers more capacity but also creates a smoother, more pleasant connection to the terminal. It’s about setting a positive tone for travelers right from the moment they arrive.
What made the location behind the Sheraton hotel the ideal spot for this new zone?
That location was chosen strategically for its proximity to the departure hall. Being at the same level as the terminal means passengers can transition seamlessly without navigating multiple floors or long walks. It also allowed us to design access that’s separate from other airport traffic, which is critical for reducing congestion. Positioning it behind the Sheraton hotel gave us the space to create a larger zone while integrating it into the existing infrastructure in a way that feels natural and convenient.
How do you see this new drop-off zone elevating the passenger experience compared to the existing setup?
The new zone is a significant upgrade in terms of both space and comfort. It’s larger, which means less crowding and a more relaxed atmosphere for saying goodbyes. The direct connection to the departure hall cuts down on travel time within the airport, making the process feel less rushed. We’ve also focused on the little details—like creating a welcoming environment—that can make a big difference in how passengers perceive their journey. It’s about starting their trip on the right note.
Could you highlight some of the specific features being incorporated to make this zone more accessible and user-friendly?
Absolutely. One key feature is a dedicated assistance point for passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring they have the support they need right at the drop-off point. We’re also designing the layout to be intuitive, with clear signage and easy access to the terminal. The zone will be operated with efficiency in mind, so even during peak times, passengers won’t feel stuck or frustrated. It’s all about removing barriers and making the process as smooth as possible for everyone.
How will the new access road and bridge contribute to better traffic management around the drop-off area?
The new access road and bridge are game-changers for traffic flow. By connecting directly from the A201 and the Brussels Ring Road to the drop-off zone, we’re creating a dedicated path that keeps this traffic separate from other airport movements. The bridge links straight to the zone at terminal level, bypassing potential bottlenecks. This setup minimizes delays and reduces the risk of congestion, especially during busy periods, ensuring that dropping off passengers remains quick and hassle-free.
What measures are in place to keep traffic and access to public car parks running smoothly during construction?
We’ve planned the construction phases carefully to minimize disruption. The current drop-off zone next to car park P1 will stay fully operational until the new one is ready, so there’s no gap in service. Access to public car parks P1, P2, and P3 will also remain open throughout the process. We’re coordinating closely with traffic management teams to adjust signage and routes as needed, ensuring that drivers can still navigate the area without confusion or delays, even as work progresses.
Can you describe how the landscaping and seating areas will shape the atmosphere for passengers at this new zone?
The landscaping is something we’re really excited about. By adding plants and seating areas, we’re transforming what could be a purely functional space into a more inviting one. These elements create a sense of calm and comfort, allowing passengers to take a moment before heading into the terminal. It’s a small but meaningful way to ease the stress of travel and make the airport feel more human-centric. We want people to feel welcomed, not just processed, as they start their journey.
Since the new zone is strictly for quick goodbyes, could you remind us of the options available for picking up passengers?
Of course. For anyone picking up passengers, the public car parks P1, P2, and P3 are the go-to options. These lots are conveniently located near the terminal and provide ample space for short-term parking while waiting for arrivals. They’re designed to handle the flow of pick-up traffic efficiently, ensuring that drivers can get in and out without much hassle. It’s a clear separation of functions—drop-offs at the new zone for speed, and pick-ups at the car parks for convenience.
What’s the expected timeline for completing this new drop-off zone, and how does it align with the airport’s broader goals?
We’re targeting an opening date at the beginning of October 2026 for the new drop-off zone. This timeline positions it as the first completed piece of the larger Hub 3.0 project, which is a comprehensive plan to upgrade the airport’s infrastructure. Finishing this zone early sets the stage for subsequent phases, showing our commitment to enhancing passenger experience step by step while laying the groundwork for more ambitious developments down the line.
Can you give us a broader picture of the Hub 3.0 project and how the drop-off zone fits into this vision?
Hub 3.0 is our long-term vision to transform Brussels Airport into a more modern, efficient, and sustainable hub. It encompasses several major upgrades, including expanding the departure and arrival halls, building a new hotel, and creating an intermodal hub for public transport like trains, trams, and buses. The new drop-off zone is the starting point—it’s a tangible first step that addresses immediate needs while aligning with our goal of improving connectivity and capacity. It’s a piece of a much larger puzzle aimed at future-proofing the airport.
What’s your forecast for the future of airport infrastructure development, especially with projects like Hub 3.0 on the horizon?
I believe we’re entering an era where airport infrastructure will prioritize both functionality and sustainability in equal measure. Projects like Hub 3.0 are a blueprint for balancing passenger growth with environmental considerations—think green spaces, energy-efficient designs, and seamless intermodal transport. My forecast is that airports will increasingly become integrated hubs, not just transit points, blending travel with hospitality and community elements. The challenge will be managing timelines and budgets, but the payoff is creating spaces that serve travelers for decades to come.
