Brussels Airlines will keep its long-haul fleet at 11 Airbus A330 aircraft and abandon plans to add two more in 2027 after a weak first half of 2026. The Lufthansa Group carrier is also dropping wet-leased capacity for summer 2027, meaning four airBaltic aircraft currently flying for Brussels Airlines will not return next year.
The fleet decision follows an adjusted EBIT loss of €70 million in the first six months of 2026, about 50% worse than a year earlier. Higher fuel costs, repeated strikes in Belgium and geopolitical uncertainty weighed on performance, while reduced demand on some Africa routes linked to the Ebola outbreak added pressure.
Brussels Airlines framed the move as a more cautious response after profitability came in below expectations and took the decision in consultation with Lufthansa Group. Long-haul cabin refurbishment continues, with new Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy interiors due in 2027, indicating that investment on the network is being slowed rather than stopped.