"Brussels Airlines"

Brussels Airlines is set for a leadership change. From July 1, 2024, Dieter Vranckx stepped into the role of chairperson of the board at SN Airholding, the parent company of Brussels Airlines.

This move marks a significant shift in the airline’s top management. Vranckx will take over from Christina Foerster, who is departing from the Lufthansa Group.

This change at the top comes at a crucial time for Brussels Airlines as it navigates the post-pandemic aviation landscape.

Dieter Vranckx Background

Born in 1973, Dieter Vranckx is a Belgian national with deep roots in the aviation industry. His career began in 1998 at Sabena as a Management Trainee.

Vranckx’s educational background includes a commercial engineer diploma and an MBA from the prestigious Solvay business school in Brussels.

Throughout his career, Vranckx has held various positions within the Lufthansa Group. He joined Brussels Airlines in 2018, initially as Chief Financial Officer before becoming CEO.

In 2021, he took on the role of CEO at Swiss, another Lufthansa Group airline.

Outline of New Roles

Recently, Lufthansa Group announced Vranckx’s appointment to its Executive Board. Starting July 1, he will oversee Global Markets and Commercial Steering Hubs.

In addition to this role, Vranckx will chair the board of SN Airholding.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Vranckx gave comment on the appointment. “Brussels Airlines has been an important part of my career. I am happy to return as chairperson to the board of SN Airholding.”

“It’s wonderful to see how far the airline has come, and what an exciting future this airline has ahead.”

About Brussels Airlines

Brussels Airlines is Belgium’s national carrier and a key player in the European aviation market. Founded in 2002, it emerged from the ashes of Sabena, Belgium’s former national airline.

The airline serves as a vital link between Brussels, the capital of Europe, and destinations across Europe, Africa, and North America.

As a member of the Lufthansa Group since 2016, the carrier has benefited from being part of a larger aviation network.

The airline is known for its focus on passenger comfort, punctuality, and its unique Belgian touch, often showcasing the country’s culture and cuisine on board.

Brussels Airlines operates a fleet of modern Airbus aircraft, including A319s, A320s, and A330s for long-haul flights.

The airline has been working on enhancing its sustainability efforts, investing in fuel-efficient aircraft and exploring innovative ways to reduce its carbon footprint.

With its hub at Brussels Airport, the airline plays a crucial role in connecting passengers from across Europe to Africa, where it has a strong network.

This Africa-focused strategy has been a key differentiator for Brussels Airlines in the competitive European airline market.

As Dieter Vranckx takes on his new role, industry observers will be keen to see how his leadership and experience will shape the future of Brussels Airlines in an ever-evolving aviation landscape.

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Brussels Airlines is excited to announce a collaborative effort with Skywings Flight Training, an Antwerp-based academy.

This innovative program breaks new ground by allowing the carrier to recruit aspiring pilots ahead of their training.

Skywings will ensure these future aviators receive top-notch training that meets the carrier’s high standards. The customised training will familiarize them with the airline’s specific procedures.

Growth on the Horizon for Brussels Airlines…

Brussels Airlines is experiencing a period of significant expansion. The carrier is seeing new aircraft joining their fleet and further destinations being added to their network.

To support this growth, the airline is actively seeking talented individuals across various roles.

Fast-Track to the Cockpit: The Multi Pilot Licence Program

To expedite the onboarding process for first officers, Brussels Airlines has joined forces with Skywings Flight Training. This partnership has resulted in the creation of a unique “Multi Pilot Licence-program.” Here’s how it works:

• Early Recruitment: The airline and Skywings team up to recruit aspiring pilots even before their training begins.
• Efficient Training: Throughout the program, cadets begin working towards a Multi Pilot Licence (MPL). This is essential for operating the multi-pilot aircraft that make up Brussels Airlines’ entire fleet.
• Real-World Preparation: As well as classroom learning, pilot candidates will gain valuable experience through simulator training. They will become thoroughly familiar with the operational procedures of Belgium’s national airline.

Transition to Brussels Airlines

Upon successful completion of the program, these highly trained pilots can seamlessly join Brussels Airlines. Their first operational step will be as first officers on the A319 and A320 fleet.

This innovative approach eliminates the need for a lengthy selection process or additional Ab Initio training within the airline.

Stakeholder Comments

This collaboration offers significant advantages for all parties involved, as Filip Aerts, Head of Flight Operations at Brussels Airlines, explains.

“This partnership is a true win-win for everyone. The flight training becomes more accessible for the candidates, providing a fast track to a rewarding career at Brussels Airlines.”

“Simultaneously, it allows us to streamline the training process and welcome new colleagues on board much sooner.”

Pieter Brantegem, Chief Commercial Officer at Skywings Flight Training, echoes this sentiment.

“Through our partnership with Brussels Airlines, Skywings Flight Training is thrilled to offer a Multi Pilot License program that transforms aspiring pilots into professional aviators in just 19 months.”

“Together, we are committed to providing exceptional training and ensuring a smooth transition for our graduates into their careers at Brussels Airlines.”

Ready to Take Off?

Interested candidates can apply for the MPL training program through the airline’s job website.

The program kicks off this autumn, with the first batch of graduates taking to the skies for Brussels Airlines in 2026.

Open House Day

For those curious about this exciting opportunity, Brussels Airlines is hosting an open house day for interested candidates at their Zaventem headquarters (b.house) on Sunday, May 5th.

Conclusion

Brussels Airlines, the flag carrier of Belgium, is a forward-thinking airline committed to providing exceptional air travel experiences.

Their focus on growth and expansion is evident in their ever-growing fleet and the addition of exciting new destinations to their network.

The airline actively cultivates a talented workforce. This is exemplified by their innovative partnership with Skywings Flight Training, a program designed to cultivate the next generation of pilots.

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Brussels Airlines has this week stated that 300,000 passengers are expected to use their services for the end-of-year period.

Of this accolade, it is understood that long-haul flights are 87% full, mostly with people traveling to see friends and family for the holidays.

Without further ado, let’s get into it…

Brussels Airlines Expects 300,000 Passengers For End-of-Year…

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It is understood that December 22 was the busiest day of this period, with over 24,000 passengers booked on Brussels Airlines flights.

December 29 will come in second with 21,000 passengers, with 228,000 of that 300,000 traveling on short and medium-haul services.

Within their announcement, they decided to reflect on what has been a busy 2023 for the carrier, with them saying the following:

“Brussels Airlines will communicate the full-year results of 2023 early March. But the airline can already confirm that solid black figures are expected which would mark the end of three financially turbulent years for the Belgian airline.”

“A historic moment for Brussels Airlines in 2023 was no doubt the arrival of the Airbus A320neo. The very first aircraft of this type in the fleet of Brussels Airlines, and also the very first time Brussels Airlines was able to take delivery of a brand-new plane. One more A320neo has in the meantime joined the fleet.”

“Brussels Airlines was also able to invest in a better passenger experience, with a renewed Sunrise Lounge, upgraded Business Class catering on short haul flights, new amenity kits and the announcement of Michaël Vrijmoed as Star Chef for Brussels Airlines.”

All eyes will be on how the rest of this year will go for the airline, as well as what 2024 will hold for them moving forward.

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Brussels Airlines completed it’s first Airbus A320neo flight this week, with Vienna being the lucky destination to receive the new aircraft type.

SN2905 was operated by OO-SBA which was delivered to the carrier on November 1, as per data from Planespotters.net. It has taken nearly six weeks for the airline to operate this aircraft commercially.

Without further ado, let’s get into it…

First Flight to Vienna: Brussels Airlines’ First Airbus A320neo…

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Brussels Airlines flight SN2905 departed the capital at 1552 local time and proceeded eastbound to Vienna, where it landed at 1702 local time on December 12.

On taking so long to get the aircraft commercially flying, the airline said the following on this:

“Maintenance and Engineering had to perform the last trims and finishes to the aircraft, and today was the very first commercial flight of the plane.”

Speaking about the first Airbus A320neo flight with Brussels Airlines to Vienna, the carrier said the following also:

“This is a historic moment for Brussels Airlines, as this is not only the first A320neo, but also the very first brand-new aircraft delivered to the airline in its history.”

“Brussels Airlines has ambitious fleet renewal plans, with four more A320neo’s scheduled to join the fleet in the coming months.”

“The Airbus A320neo is an important part of the sustainability strategy at Brussels Airlines. It produces up to 20% less CO2-emissions and up to 50% less noise.”

“A more quiet aircraft also enhances the passenger experience on board, together with a flexible lighting system and 40% larger overhead bins for luggage.”

All eyes will be on how this aircraft performs for the carrier.

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Brussels Airlines today took delivery of it’s first Airbus A320neo aircraft, with a further four yet to be delivered to the carrier.

It is understood that the aircraft is laid out in an all-economy setup with 180 seats onboard, and is registered as OO-SBA.

Without further ado, let’s get into it…

Brussels Airlines Receives First Airbus A320neo…

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OO-SBA, the first Airbus A320neo for Brussels Airlines departed the delivery center in Toulouse at 1139 local time this morning.

After a short flight across French airspace, OO-SBA landed into the Belgian capital at 1257 local time.

In a statement, Airbus said the following on the delivery:

“The A320neo is part of the airline’s fleet renewal strategy to operate the latest state of the art, efficient aircraft in order to meet Brussels Airlines’ ambitious sustainability targets.”

“The A320neo incorporates the latest technologies, including new-generation CFM International LEAP-1A engines for more efficiency and Sharklets for improved aerodynamics, which together reduce fuel burn and CO2 emissions by at least 20 per cent.”

“The aircraft is also a good neighbour at airports with a 50 per cent lower noise footprint compared to previous generation aircraft.”

“The new A320neo will join Brussels Airlines’ all Airbus fleet of 43 aircraft, including 34 A320 Family aircraft and nine A330-300s.”

“Perfectly sized for the European market, the new aircraft will enter into service on the carrier’s short- to medium-haul network.”

All eyes will be on the other four Airbus A320neos to be delivered to the airline in due course as continued fleet modernisation and expansion continues.

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Brussels Airlines has this week welcomed its 10th Airbus A330 aircraft back into their fleet, matching pre-COVID levels for operations.

Because of this aircraft re-entering the fleet, the airline will be ramping up its operations across the continent of Africa.

Without further ado, let’s get into it…

Brussels Airlines’ 10th A330: More Connections for Africa…

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It is understood that this 10th Airbus A330 for Brussels Airlines will become operational in the Summer of next year.

The airline will be increasing services to Kigali, Rwanda to daily, and will be adding services between the Belgian capital and Nairobi in June 2024 on a six-weekly basis.

Across the winter schedule, the Nairobi service will be operated on a four times per week basis, with an extra direct flight to Dakar and extra rotations to Banjul and Monrovia will be added.

Below is the scheduling for the new Nairobi route:

Happy Days at the Lufthansa Group?

Commenting on the new route & additions was Brussels Airlines CEO Dorothea von Boxberg:

“With the addition of Nairobi to our network, daily frequencies to Kigali and extra flights to West Africa, we offer more choice to our passengers travelling to and from Africa than ever.”

“The tenth intercontinental aircraft is a clear sign of Lufthansa Group’s trust in Brussels Airlines and strengthens our role as the hub to Africa for the Group.”

Adding to this was Kevin Markette, the Lufthansa Group General Manager for the East African region:

“Kenya remains a focus market for Lufthansa Group in East Africa, largely driven by the significant increase in demand and resurgence in travel, coupled with the immense support of the local community within the region.”

“I am pleased that we continue to grow our presence in Kenya, underlining Lufthansa Group’s commitment to Kenya and the region as a whole.”

“With the addition of the six weekly Brussels Airlines’ flights to Nairobi, Lufthansa Group will offer 18 weekly connections to Kenya in summer 2024, including daily Lufthansa flights to the capital and five weekly direct Discover Airlines flights to Mombasa.”

Overall, this is significant news for the airline and also the overall Lufthansa Group as they continue to expand onwards globally.

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This week has seen Brussels Airlines report a considerable reduction in its losses, showing that the Lufthansa Group member is heading in the right direction.

In the first half of this year, the carrier handled 3.95 million passengers, which is up 45% compared to the same period last year.

Revenue at the carrier increased from 452 million euros to 705 million euros, highlighting a 56% increase on that front.

Brussels Airlines Has Reduced its Losses…

The adjusted EBIT for Brussels Airlines in 1H23 was -12 million EUR, which is a major improvement from the reported 89 million EUR loss reported in 1H22.

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Commenting on these improvements was Nina Oewerdieck, the Chief Financial Officer for the carrier:

“The results of our first semester of 2023 are completely in line with our expectations. In 2022, we communicated historically high third-trimester results.”

“This year, I am proud to see that we already delivered a record in the second quarter. This inspires us great confidence to reach solid black results for the entire year of 2023.”

Brussels Airlines was keen to note that the reduction in losses is in line with expectations and seasonality of the aviation business.

On top of this, more stable fuel prices, increasing demand, and higher yields mean that they expect to be back in the black and in profit by the end of 2023.

Overall, this is good news for the carrier, as the priority now will be returning to profitability off the back of the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused considerable disruption to their operation.

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Brussels Airlines has announced its first quarter financial performance, showing reductions of its EBIT losses despite increased costs in the low season.

First Quarter Performance

Brussels Airlines finished Q1 2023 with a loss of 44 million EUR EBIT (Earnings Before Interest and Taxes). It was reported this was an improvement of 29% compared to the same period in 2022.

The improvement in its EBIT results was attributable to the increase in the airline’s revenue. The carrier made 123 million EUR in additional revenue, a year-on-year increase of 79%. Total revenue was 280 million for the quarter.

Comparing the route network and compacity, Q1 2022 was still impacted by the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Q1 2023 results show an increase in Available Seat-Kilometres (ASKs) by 37%.

Last year’s capacity was at 61% of the 2019 levels. This year’s quarter increased to 84% of the 2019 levels.

The European Winter months are generally the lowest-performing period of the year for airlines, which results in reduced revenue. This Winter also saw increasing fuel prices and inflation.

For Brussels, its operating expenses increased by 123 million EUR, or 54% compared to the previous year. Total operating expenses were reported at 350 million EUR.

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The airline attributed the increase to the combination of increased volume and increased costs due to fuel costs and inflation.

Nina Oewerdieck, Chief Financial Officer at Brussels Airlines, said: “The results of this first quarter are in line with our expectations.”

“The improvement of our Revenues by almost 79% and the Adjusted EBIT by 29% gives us confidence and confirms we are on track to reach solid black results for the whole of 2023.”

Building for Summer

The airline is making preparations for the European Summer season, tipped to the busiest since 2019 with most of the travel restrictions having been removed globally.

“For several months now, we are in continuous dialogue with the different communities within our company and our union delegates.”

“The responsibility for the future of our airline is shared by all participants. We are confident to find agreements with all employee groups which will ensure a solid base to be prepared for the summer season.” Oewerdieck added.

The carrier will add two wet-leased CRJ-900 aircraft from CityJet from 26 March until 28 October. In-house, there have been two additional Airbus A320s introduced to the fleet to serve its medium-haul network.

The airline plans to grow its operations by 10% this summer with the wet-leasing agreements and new aircraft designed to “grow its fleet in a flexible manner and increase its European offer.”

Confidence in Leadership

The airline has also recently made changes to its senior management team. Dorothea von Boxberg was appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) in April.

In a move that can be seen as a reflection of its confidence in the financial performance, the Board has extended the tenure of Öwerdieck as CFO of the airline for a further five years. She has been in the role since 2020, navigating the airline’s finances through the pandemic.

“Under Nina’s leadership, Brussels Airlines has been able to exit the worst crisis ever in its history by achieving a very strong financial third quarter result in 2022. Furthermore, Nina has successfully led the turnaround plan Reboot Plus and secured an early repayment of the Belgian government loan.”

“I am very happy that Nina will remain member of the Brussels Airlines Management Board for five more years,” Christina Foerster, member of the Lufthansa Group Executive Board and Chairwoman of the SN Airholding Board, said in the statement.

The airline has been able to achieve an early reimbursement of the Belgium government loan received to support it through the pandemic. Her mandate now is to continue to create sustainable profitability for the airline.

Öwerdieck added, “I am grateful for the trust that the SN Airholding Board and Brussels Airlines are placing in me. The extension of my mandate allows me to continue working on a strong future for Belgium’s home carrier.”