Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL)

Arrival at Charleroi involves disembarking directly into the terminal or via a short apron walk, followed by passport control for non-Schengen passengers, baggage collection, and customs clearance.

• Follow the overhead signs to the main arrivals channel upon leaving the aircraft.
• Passengers arriving from non-Schengen destinations pass through border control; ensure travel documents are ready for inspection.
• Proceed to the baggage reclaim area to collect checked luggage from the assigned carousel.
• Clear customs via the green channel (nothing to declare) or red channel (goods to declare).
• Exit into the public arrivals hall where ground transport options, information desks, and car rental services are situated.

• Train

  Direct Express Bus (Flibco)

  Direct shuttle service running frequently between the airport terminal coach park and central Brussels.

  Time:

  roughly 55 minutes

  Typical cost:

  typically €15-€20

• Train

  Local Bus + Train Combination

  Local TEC bus route A connects the terminal to Charleroi-Central railway station (~20 minutes), followed by an SNCB train to Brussels.

  Time:

  roughly 70-80 minutes total

  Typical cost:

  typically €15-€18 total

• Taxi

  Taxi

  Licenced taxis are available from the official rank outside the arrivals area. Rates are metered or standard fixed regional fares.

  Time:

  roughly 45-60 minutes

  Typical cost:

  typically €90-€120

• Car rental

  Car Rental

  Desks for major car hire operators are located in the arrivals area, with vehicles parked a short walk away.

  Time:

  roughly 45-60 minutes to Brussels

  Typical cost:

  varies by provider and duration

Brussels South Charleroi Airport functions mainly as a point-to-point facility, so self-transfers require collecting luggage and clearing security again.

• Terminals 1 and 2 are within short walking distance of each other via a covered outdoor pathway.
• Passengers connecting between flights must collect checked luggage, enter the public departures area, and go through security screening.
• Allow at least 2 to 3 hours between self-connecting flights to accommodate border control and luggage transfer.

Free Wi-Fi access is provided throughout the public areas and departure gates of both terminals.

• Select the official airport Wi-Fi network on your device.
• Accept the terms of service on the portal page to gain internet access.
• Connection speeds are adequate for messaging, browsing, and checking travel documentation.

Belgium uses the Euro (EUR). Electronic payments are standard across the airport and public transport.

• Automated teller machines (ATMs) are located in both the arrivals hall and departures areas.
• Most transport operators, shops, and restaurants accept major debit and credit cards.
• It is advisable to carry a small amount of cash for minor incidental expenses.

A selection of quick-service eateries, bakeries, and coffee shops are available in both landside and airside zones.

• Landside facilities offer grab-and-go food and hot beverages prior to security.
• Airside departure zones feature additional food outlets and seating areas after security screening.
• Operating hours generally align with scheduled daily flight departures.

An airport lounge is available in Terminal 1 for passengers seeking a quieter waiting environment.

• Located airside in Terminal 1 after security clearance.
• Offers comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and charging points.
• Access can be purchased online in advance or paid at the entrance, subject to capacity.

There are no transit hotels inside the terminal buildings, but several accommodation options operate nearby.

• Hotels are located within 1 to 3 kilometres of the airport perimeter.
• Some local hotels provide dedicated airport shuttle services or can be reached via local taxi.
• Early morning departure passengers often stay near Charleroi or along the direct shuttle bus route in Brussels.

Baggage facilities include reclaim carousels in arrivals and luggage storage services.

• Carousels in the arrivals hall indicate flight details on overhead screens.
• Left-luggage lockers and storage facilities are available near the terminal entrance.
• Inquiries regarding lost or delayed luggage should be directed to the airline ground handling service desk in the arrivals area.

Basic family amenities are present to assist travellers with infants and young children.

• Dedicated baby-changing stations are situated adjacent to primary restroom facilities.
• Pushchairs are permitted through security up to the boarding gate area.
• Family priority lanes may be operational at security during busy travel periods.

• ATMs
• Car Rental Desks
• Luggage Storage
• Airport Lounge
• Information Desk
• Charging Points
• Pharmacy / Convenience Outlets

Local emergency number: 112 (National Emergency).

• Dial 112 for all emergency services (Medical, Fire, Police) in Belgium.
• First aid facilities and trained medical personnel are available on site by contacting airport staff or the main information desk.
• The Belgian Federal Police operate a station within the airport premises for urgent security matters or lost identity documents.

• Check your passport validity and any visa, ETA or entry declaration required.
• Confirm your departure terminal on your boarding pass the day before.
• Activate a travel eSIM so you are online the moment you land.
• Download offline maps and screenshot your hotel address and booking reference.
• Tell your bank you are travelling and carry a backup payment card.
• Save the local emergency number and your embassy contact in your phone.
• Photograph your passport and store the copy somewhere you can reach offline.
• Check baggage allowance and any restricted items for your destination.

Airport operations change. Always confirm terminals, fares and timetables with the official sources below before you travel.

• Brussels South Charleroi Airport Official WebsiteOfficial airport source
• Belgian Immigration Office (IBZ)Government source
• Belgian Customs and Excise (FPS Finance)Government source
• SNCB National Railways BelgiumOfficial transit source
• Flibco Airport TransfersOfficial transit source
• SOS 112 Belgium Emergency ServicesGovernment source