Brussels Airlines adds Express Rail connections to Liège, Aachen and Cologne

(16 March 2026)

Starting 7 September 2026, Brussels Airlines — in cooperation with Deutsche Bahn — will offer a new, convenient way for your customers to reach Brussels Airport. The new Express Rail service connects Cologne and Aachen with Brussels Airport (BRU) twice daily in each direction.

The Brussels Airlines Express Rail trains operate between Brussels Airport (BRU) and the train stations of Liège-Guillemins (XHN), Aachen (XHJ) and Cologne (QKL). Travel time is approximately two hours.

All Express Rail services carry a Brussels Airlines flight number and can be booked in the GDS or via NDC in the same way as a feeder flight. Through fares apply for the combined rail-and-air journey.

For customers arriving in Brussels from Europe, Africa or other regions, Express Rail provides an easy and comfortable onward link to Cologne, Aachen and Liège. The service ensures a seamless continuation of their Brussels Airlines itinerary.

Benefits of Brussels Airlines Express Rail

  • Optimal coordination of train and plane with transfer guarantee
  • Connection guarantee and rebooking alternatives in the event of delays and cancellations
  • One Brussels Airlines ticket and one check-in for the train and the flight
  • Includes local transport—the rail ticket is also a Deutsche Bahn City-Ticket
  • Automatic advance seat reservation for the train journey
  • Status customers have access to the DB lounges*
  • Mileage credit also for the train journey

* Lufthansa First and Business Class travelers as well as Lufthansa HON Circle Members and Senators with a valid Lufthansa Express Rail boarding pass have access to the premium area of the DB Lounge.