BRUSSELS AIRLINES MEANS BUSINESS WITH NEW FLIGHT FROM BRISTOL

Third daily frequency connects South West with Africa and 50 Euro cities

Fourteen destinations in Africa, along with 50 European cities, are now within reach of business travellers across the South West and Wales thanks to Brussels Airlines’ announcement of a third daily flight linking Bristol to the Belgian capital. The airline already operates a twice-daily service, but the third frequency announced today (11 December) opens up convenient connections across two continents for business and leisure passengers, as well as enhancing inbound access for overseas visitors. From 10 January, the Brussels Airlines service will be operated on behalf of Brussels Airlines by bmi regional as part of a ‘wet lease contract’ signed by both airlines, with crews based at Bristol International for the first time. Flight codes for both airlines - as well as Star Alliance partner, Lufthansa – will be available on the service. Brussels Airlines joined the Star Alliance earlier this week, following fellow Bristol-based carrier, Continental Airlines, which joined in October. Passengers of both airlines now have access to over 900 destinations worldwide through the world’s largest airline alliance. Shaun Browne, Aviation Director at Bristol International Airport, said: “This is great news for businesses in the South West and Wales. The third daily flight is the key that unlocks convenient connections across Europe and Africa, where Brussels Airlines is historically strong. “For example, businesses needing to access the German market now have the option of making onward connections via Brussels with Brussels Airlines and Star Alliance partner, Lufthansa. The new flight times will also enable those with meetings in Europe’s capital to conduct a full day’s business without requiring an overnight stay.” Geert Sciot, Vice President Communication at Brussels Airlines, said: “We are happy to offer the South West and Wales additional travel solutions to the capital of Europe and smooth connections to dozens of other Brussels Airlines or Star Alliance destinations. “We can guarantee passengers seamless connections thanks to excellent timing of the Bristol flights and the convenience of Brussels airport. This frequency increase clearly demonstrates the investment priority Brussels Airlines, as a member of the Star Alliance global network, now gives to the United Kingdom. Passengers will also be pleased with our new frequent flyer programme, Miles & More, and the many benefits it offers.” Brussels Airlines is an Africa specialist, with 46 flights per week to destinations including Nairobi, Kinshasa, Kenya, Entebbe, Dakar, Freetown and Abidjan. As well as a dedicated business class, the airline offers an economy class designed to give business travellers flexibility. B.flex economy+ is a fully flexible fare, which includes flight changes, refunds and fast-lane access. A b.light economy leisure fare is also available. Flights are on sales now at www.brusselsairlines.com. The new flight timetable is: BRS – BRU dep. 06:30 arr. 08:45 dep. 12:05 arr. 14:25 dep. 16:40 arr. 18.50 BRU – BRS dep. 09:35 arr. 09:45 dep. 15:55 arr. 16:05 dep. 19:35 arr. 19:50 Ends For further information please contact: James Gore, Bristol International Airport 01275 475447 / 07717 896315