The summer of 2026 is expected to be one of the busiest periods in the history of Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL).
In February, major news shook the Belgian aviation sector: after the Walloon government withdrew the planned passenger tax, Ryanair immediately announced that it would maintain its full 2026 summer schedule and is planning a +9% traffic increase compared to the previous year.

This means Charleroi Airport will offer more than 7.5 million seats across 112 different routes this summer.

The growth is particularly strong on popular holiday destinations such as Ibiza, Faro, Sicily, Marseille, and many others. As a result, European travelers are expected to fly through or depart from Charleroi.

While this is excellent news for those looking for affordable flights to Europe’s most popular destinations, it also brings significant challenges. The increased passenger volume will likely result in longer queues, more crowded terminals, and slower service — especially during peak season (June–August).

For many travelers, this can mean that their otherwise pleasant holiday starts with stress right at the airport: long waits for a taxi, overcrowded buses, and uncertain arrival times at their hotel or in the city.

What Does This Mean for Passengers?

The +9% growth announced by Ryanair is undoubtedly positive news for tourism and the local economy. More flights mean more visitors to Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, and other Belgian destinations, which benefits hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
However, from a practical traveler’s perspective, this increase also brings several challenges that can make your arrival or departure significantly more stressful:

• Longer waiting times at security control
• During peak summer weeks, security queues can easily take 45–90 minutes, especially in the early morning and late afternoon rushes. Delays here can quickly eat into your connection or holiday time.
• Crowded baggage claim areas
• With more flights landing in a shorter time window, the baggage belts often become overloaded. It’s not uncommon to wait 20–40 minutes for your luggage, sometimes in very crowded conditions.
• Fuller shuttle buses and public transport
• The shuttle buses between Charleroi Airport and Brussels city center (and other cities) will run more frequently, but they can still fill up quickly. Standing with luggage for 45–70 minutes is not the most pleasant way to start or end your trip.
• Heavier road traffic around the airport
• The roads leading to and from Charleroi Airport often experience congestion during peak hours. What is normally a 50–60 minute journey to Brussels can easily turn into 75–100 minutes during busy periods.

Especially challenging situations:

• Families with small children or babies
• Travelers with lots of luggage or sports equipment
• People with early morning flights (before 7 AM) or late night arrivals (after 11 PM)
• Those attending events in Brussels (festivals, conferences, weddings, etc.)

In these conditions, relying on taxis (which can have long queues) or public transport can turn what should be an exciting trip into a tiring and frustrating experience right from the start.

Why Private Airport Transfer Is the Smartest Choice?

When the airport is this busy, a private transfer becomes the most comfortable and reliable solution.

Advantages of CharleroiExpress.be:

• Door-to-door service — directly to your hotel in Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, or anywhere in Belgium
• Charleroi Airport to Brussels: Direct transport to Brussels city and all districts
• Fixed price in advance — no surprises or peak-time surcharges
• Flight monitoring — your driver tracks your flight and waits for you in case of delays
• Spacious and comfortable vehicles with air conditioning and plenty of luggage space
• Professional, English-speaking, helpful drivers
• 24/7 availability — perfect for early departures and late arrivals
• Quick and safe online booking
• Modern Mercedes Benz fleet
• Child seet for family airport transfers
• Group Transfer: Comfortable minivans and coaches for large groups
• Meet & greet at Charleroi Airport

Practical Tips for a Smooth Charleroi Airport Experience in Summer 2026

• Book your transfer well in advance — especially on Friday evenings, Sunday afternoons, and public holidays.
• Allow extra time at the airport — during summer, security checks can take much longer.
• Arrive at least 2.5–3 hours before departure.
• For larger groups or lots of luggage, choose a private van — it’s often more comfortable and sometimes even cheaper than multiple taxis.
• Late or very early flights — public transport runs less frequently. A private transfer provides peace of mind.
• During major events (Brussels Jazz Weekend, Pride, festivals, etc.), advance booking is even more important.

Ready for a Stress-Free Arrival?

Don’t let the summer crowds ruin the start of your trip. Book a reliable and comfortable private transfer with Belgium’s most popular local service.

Book your Charleroi Airport Transfer now at CharleroiExpress.be

When you book a private airport transfer with CharleroiExpress.be, you're choosing more than just transportation – you're selecting a complete travel solution designed around your needs. Unlike public transportation, which requires navigating multiple connections, dealing with luggage on crowded trains, and adhering to fixed schedules, our private transfer service delivers you directly from Charleroi Airport to your exact destination.

Travel smarter this summer — arrive relaxed, stress-free, and ready to enjoy everything Belgium has to offer!