If you often drop someone off at Brussels Airport (Zaventem), 2026 will be a real turning point. Brussels Airport has announced a new Drop-off zone (passenger drop-off area) that is expected to be ready by the beginning of October 2026, located behind the Sheraton hotel, at departures hall level.
Official Brussels Airport announcement: Work starts on new drop-off zone at Brussels Airport
The goal of this article is simple: explain what will change, what stays the same during the works, and how to avoid last-minute stress on the day you travel.
What will actually change in 2026
Brussels Airport’s plan is to make the drop-off experience smoother by separating Drop-off traffic from other traffic flows, reducing congestion close to the terminal. In plain terms: the airport wants a clearer, more direct drop-off flow, especially during busy periods.
The new location behind the Sheraton at departures level is also designed to offer a more comfortable connection to the terminal, so passengers can get to Departures more easily.
What will NOT change during the works
Good news: until the new Drop-off zone opens, the current Drop-off zone next to car park P1 will remain accessible. The public car parks P1, P2 and P3 are also expected to remain accessible during the works.
So yes, the airport keeps operating as normal. However, during major infrastructure works, traffic around the terminal can feel less predictable depending on the phase.
Why this matters even if you do not use the Drop-off
Even if you never drop anyone off, these works can still affect you indirectly. The terminal area concentrates a lot of traffic, and when an access point changes, you can see more hesitation, more “last-second lane changes”, and longer approach times at peak moments.
That’s why many travellers choose a more straightforward plan:
one clear arrival point, a simple routine, and then the terminal.
The best approach in 2026
If you must drop someone off:
- Keep it truly short. A drop-off zone works best when it stays a real “quick goodbye” area.
- Add a small buffer if you’re driving in during holidays, long weekends or peak hours.
If you’re travelling (especially for several days):
- Avoid the “we’ll see when we get there” approach. When things are changing around the terminal, that’s usually when stress builds up.
- Book your parking in advance, so you know exactly where you’re going and what your plan is.
If you want a simple alternative near Zaventem with a transfer included, GoPark follows a clear routine: you arrive, you park, and a shuttle takes you to the terminal.
Book: GoPark booking page
How it works: GoPark homepage & FAQ
Summary
In 2026, the most visible change for drivers at Brussels Airport will be the new Drop-off zone planned for early October 2026, behind the Sheraton at departures level. Until then, the current Drop-off next to P1 remains available, and airport access continues during the works.
The best travel habit for 2026 is simple: plan a little earlier and keep your arrival routine straightforward, especially if you’re leaving your car for several days.