Brussels Airport reinstated direct high-speed rail service on 7 September 2026, when the first Deutsche Bahn ICE train arrived from Cologne. Departing Cologne at 06:11, the ICE 3neo train traveled via Aachen, Liège, and Leuven before stopping at Brussels Airport at 08:29 and continuing to Antwerpen-Centraal.
Deutsche Bahn and Brussels Airlines Partnership
The relaunch follows a new air-rail partnership between Deutsche Bahn and Brussels Airlines announced in February 2026, allowing passengers to book combined train and flight tickets on a single itinerary. This partnership includes guaranteed connections in case of delays and allows passengers to earn Lufthansa Miles & More miles on these combined journeys.
Train Schedule and Route
There
are currently two return ICE services daily between Cologne and Antwerp, both calling at Brussels Airport. Trains from Cologne stop at 08:29 and 16:28, while services from Antwerp to Cologne stop at 11:29 and 14:29.
Operational Collaboration with NMBS
The ICE trains operate with Belgian national railway operator NMBS providing drivers within Belgium, ensuring smooth operation across borders and integration with local rail services.
Strategic Advantages for Brussels Airlines
Brussels Airlines uses the ICE connection to extend passenger catchment into western Germany without adding flights. Nina Öwerdieck, Chief Financial Officer of Brussels Airlines, said, “We’re able to welcome more guests on our network, without the need of adding flights.”
She added, “We hope this is the start of a larger high-speed train network at Brussels Airport in the future, with hopefully more seamless intermodal travel options to come.”
Benefits for Passengers
Passengers can book a single ticket covering both train and flight segments, simplifying transfers by avoiding separate travel between Cologne and Brussels Airport. They also earn Lufthansa Miles & More miles on these journeys.
Official Statements
Arnaud Feist, CEO of Brussels Airport, described the new service as an important step for developing intermodal transport, offering sustainable and efficient cross-border options. Dr. Michael Peterson, board member for long-distance passenger transport at Deutsche Bahn, noted
the service connects key transport hubs, making international rail travel more convenient and attractive.
Context of Service Relaunch
High-speed rail service returns to Brussels Airport after a hiatus since 2015, responding to increased demand for cross-border travel between Germany and Belgium. This reconnection integrates Brussels Airport into the international ICE network and complements existing routes covering Brussels, Cologne, and Frankfurt, linking the airport with Brussels Airlines’ network of over 180 destinations.
