Smooth check-in
There are several ways to check in and drop off your checked baggage. We clearly outline your options so you can start your (business) trip smoothly and stress-free.
Step 1: Check in and receive your boarding pass
You can check in in three ways.
Online check-in
Most airlines offer online check-in from 24 to 48 hours before departure. You’ll receive your digital boarding pass directly on your smartphone.
- Travelling with hand luggage only? You can head straight to security.
- Travelling with checked baggage? Read below to discover your drop-off options.
Self-service kiosks in the departures hall
Not checked in online yet? With several airlines (currently fifteen), you can check in at the self-service kiosks. You’ll find them on both sides of the large central information screen in the departures hall. You’ll receive your boarding pass and - with some airlines - a baggage label.
Manual check-in counter
You can always check in at your airline’s counter. The information screens in the departures hall show which counter is assigned to your flight. Your travel documents will be checked, you’ll receive your boarding pass, and you can immediately drop off your checked baggage if you wish.
Step 2: Drop off your checked baggage
Want to know how much baggage you can bring, its allowed size, or what items are permitted? Check with your airline and read more information about baggage rules here.
You can drop off your bag in two ways: at the manual check-in counter or at the self bag drop zone.
At the manual check-in counter
The information screens show the counter assigned to your flight. The agent will label your bag, and you’ll see it depart on the conveyor belt.
Self bag drop
Want to get through the airport even faster? With self bag drop, you check in your luggage yourself, quickly and easily, without having to queue at a desk. Once you've checked in online or via a kiosk, simply bring your luggage to one of the self bag drop units, scan your boarding pass or baggage label, and place your suitcase on the belt. The system takes care of the rest.
For all the information about self bag drop, including which airlines offer this service and where to find the units, visit this page.
How does it work?
- Scan your boarding pass at a label kiosk.
- Your baggage label will be printed. Attach it to your suitcase.
- Place your suitcase on the belt and scan your baggage ticket.
- Take your receipt and continue to security screening.
Important: Never leave your baggage unattended in the departures hall. It will be treated as a security risk and may lead to the area being closed, causing disruption for you and other passengers.
Tips for a smooth start
- Keep your travel documents and boarding pass within easy reach.
- Label your baggage clearly with your name and contact details.
- Check your airline’s baggage rules (weight, size, permitted items).
- Download the Brussels Airport app to follow updates on your flight.
Frequently asked questions
Need assistance while travelling, for example due to limited mobility? Request assistance at least 48 hours in advance via your airline or travel agency. Once at the airport, head to the Special Assistance Welcome Desk, located just behind check-in row 2.
All check-in desks at Brussels Airport are located in the departure hall and spread across 14 rows. The information screens in the hall will show you exactly which desk to head to for your flight.
For flights departing from Brussels Airport, it's generally recommended to arrive 2 hours before your scheduled departure time. If you're traveling internationally, consider arriving 3 hours before departure. This gives you enough time for check-in, baggage drop, security, and reaching your gate.
Use our Travel Planner or download the app for your ideal arrival time and flight updates. Don’t forget to check for roadworks on your way to Zaventem.