Air France, KLM launch sustainable lounge in Brussels

Jun 12 2024 Travel trends

In a bid to prioritize sustainability and enhance convenience for European travelers, Air France and KLM have reopened their Air&Rail Terminal at Brussels-Midi/Zuid train station. This revamped space allows passengers to seamlessly check in for their flights to Paris and Amsterdam, underscoring the airlines' commitment to reducing carbon emissions and offering travelers more eco-friendly options.

Encouraging air-rail connections

Air France and KLM have long advocated for the integration of rail travel with air journeys, promoting the concept of Air&Rail connections between major European cities and their respective hub airports. By leveraging the efficient rail networks between Brussels, Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport, and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, the airlines aim to minimize environmental impact while providing travelers with a smoother and more sustainable travel experience.

Convenience at the Brussels-Midi/Zuid train station

The strategic location of the Air&Rail Terminal within Brussels-Midi/Zuid train station enhances convenience for passengers, offering them the flexibility to check in for their flights before even reaching the airport. Operating daily from 05:30 to 18:30, the terminal provides a range of services, including baggage check-in and ticket changes, ensuring a hassle-free start to travelers' journeys.

With the integration of Air&Rail services, passengers can enjoy a seamless intermodal travel experience. The introduction of the seventh daily high-speed connection between Brussels-Midi/Zuid and Paris-Charles de Gaulle further enhances connectivity, enabling passengers to check their baggage directly from the train station to their final destination. This integration reflects Air France and KLM's ongoing commitment to optimizing the Air&Rail offer for travelers.

Passengers utilizing the Air&Rail Terminal not only benefit from the convenience of pre-flight check-in but also enjoy additional perks tailored to enhance their travel experience. Members of the airlines' loyalty program, Flying Blue, can earn points on their train journeys, with elite status members enjoying exclusive privileges such as access to priority check-in counters and additional baggage allowances.

Premium amenities and services

The refurbished Air&Rail Terminal offers more than just check-in facilities. Passengers can relax in comfortable seating areas, access complimentary WiFi, and browse through magazines while awaiting their departure. Dedicated customer service teams are also on hand to assist passengers with itinerary changes, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience from start to finish.

Beyond convenience and comfort, Air France and KLM's collaboration with rail operators underscores their shared commitment to sustainability. By offering viable alternatives to short-haul air travel and reducing carbon emissions through intermodal partnerships, the airlines are taking proactive steps towards mitigating the environmental impact of aviation.

Expanding air-rail partnerships

Air France-KLM's initiative in Brussels is part of a broader trend towards greater collaboration between airlines and rail operators to promote sustainable travel options. With other airline groups and carriers also exploring similar partnerships across Europe, the momentum towards reducing carbon emissions and fostering more eco-friendly travel practices continues to grow.

The reopening of the Air&Rail Terminal in Brussels marks a significant milestone in Air France and KLM's efforts to promote sustainable and convenient travel options for European passengers. By leveraging the efficiency of rail networks and integrating air and rail services, the airlines are not only reducing their environmental footprint but also enhancing the overall travel experience for their customers. As the industry embraces intermodal partnerships and sustainable initiatives, travelers can look forward to more eco-friendly and seamless journeys in the years to come.