Business Class Flights From New York to Brussels
Brussels Airport (BRU) serves as a gateway to Europe and Africa, offering easy connections across both continents. With direct flights from New York's JFK and EWR, you can reach Brussels in just 7 hours, making it an ideal stopover. High-speed trains like Eurostar and Thalys also allow for quick day trips to Paris, London, Amsterdam, and other capitals.
But Brussels is more than just a transportation hub—it’s a city rich in culture and politics, attracting visitors from around the globe. Explore iconic landmarks like the European Quarter, the European Parliament, and the striking Atomium. Immerse yourself in art at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts and the Magritte Museum. Enjoy luxury shopping along Avenue Louise and Boulevard de Waterloo. Indulge in Michelin-starred dining at Comme Chez Soi or La Villa in the Sky. Brussels is waiting to be discovered!
Is flying business class to Brussels worth the cost? Business class fares are significantly higher than economy. For example, one-way flights from New York to Brussels in November 2024 are $430-$480 in economy (as of October 2024), while business class tickets are $1,620-$5,500. Prices vary based on factors like the season, airline, and booking time, with a clear price gap between the classes. But despite the higher cost, business class offers exceptional comfort, priority services, and exclusive amenities.
Moreover, with Priceline’s Express Deals, you can unlock substantial savings of 15-40% off regular fares. While some flight details remain a mystery until you book, you’ll still receive essential information beforehand, like a list of potential airlines and a promise that one of them will operate your flight. Once you finalize your booking, your full itinerary is disclosed, along with impressive savings you'll be excited to share!
Keep reading to discover why business class flights from New York to Brussels are the top choice for discerning travelers. Find answers to key questions and get expert tips on booking, upgrading, and maximizing your business class experience!
Planning your transportation to Brussels
Nonstop flights from New York (JFK or EWR) to BRU typically take 7 to 7.5 hours. One-stop flights can vary significantly, ranging from 10 to 23 hours, depending on layover duration and the flight path. Choosing between nonstop and connecting flights depends on your priorities—time, cost, and convenience.
United Airlines and Delta Airlines provide the most time- and cost-efficient nonstop flights from New York to Brussels. They offer round-trip fares starting at around $3,500 (as of October 2024 for flights in November). For one-stop options with layovers of up to two hours, Lufthansa, Brussels Airlines, and British Airways provide the best alternatives, with fares starting at around $3,030. But flight prices can vary, so be sure to check real-time fares before booking to get the most accurate rates.
After landing at BRU, you have six convenient transportation options to reach the city center:
- Buses (STIB Line): This line is often referred to as the "Airport Line" and provides a direct connection to the city center in about 30 minutes. The bus station is located on Level 0 of the airport, just below the arrivals hall (Level 2), accessible via escalators or elevators. From Monday to Friday until 8 pm, take Line 12 to the Schuman stop, located in the European Quarter and connecting to central Brussels. After 8 pm, on weekends, or public holidays, take Line 21 to the Schuman stop near Luxembourg Square. A one-way Airport2City ticket costs €7.50 (~$8) from GO vending machines or €7 (~$8) if paid using contactless on the bus.
- Trains (SNCB): The train station is located directly beneath the Departure and Arrival Halls at Brussels Airport (Level -1) and is easily accessible by escalators or elevators. Tickets to Bruxelles-Central can be booked online via the SNCB website and typically cost €9-€11 (~$10-$12). The journey to the city center takes 17- 20 minutes. Scan your ticket at the entrance gates before heading to the platform.
- Taxi: Taking a taxi from BRU to the city center is a good option for convenience and time. The typical fare is €45-€50 (~$49-$55), depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. The journey usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Taxis are conveniently located just outside the Arrivals Hall on Level 2. Official taxi stands are clearly marked at the terminal exit, ensuring you can easily find licensed taxis. Look for vehicles with the Brussels Airport Taxi label to guarantee a regulated and safe service with fixed fares.
- Car Rentals: Renting a car is ideal if you're planning to explore beyond Brussels and visit other parts of Belgium or Europe. Major car rental companies like Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt are located in the Arrivals Hall (Level 2) at BRU. Economy rentals typically cost €35-€50 (~$38-$55) per day. Premium vehicles cost €85-€120 (~$93-$131) per day, depending on the season and availability. This option provides flexibility and convenience for travelers wanting to discover more at their own pace.
- Private Transfers: Choosing a private transfer from BRU offers a convenient, stress-free, and often cost-effective start to your trip. English-speaking drivers will meet you in the Arrivals Hall, assist with your luggage, and ensure a smooth ride to your destination. During the journey, they can share local tips and recommendations, letting you relax and enjoy the experience. The approximate cost of getting to the Brussels city center from BRU would be around €50 (~$55). Keep in mind that it will vary depending on the class of vehicle, provider, and extra services.
Best 3 airlines for business class flights to Brussels
Choosing the right airline for your business class flight to Brussels requires considering key factors. They include route efficiency, cost, seat comfort, baggage allowance, and lounge access. The following options provide the best value, offering either nonstop or one-stop flights with layovers of no more than two hours and competitive pricing. Here are some of the important factors to weigh:
United Airlines Business Class
- Airport Services: United offers two business class products: United Polaris and United Business. For flights from New York to Brussels, United Polaris is the primary business class option. It provides premium service from start to finish, including complimentary luggage allowance, priority airport services, and business lounge access. The ticket includes two free checked bags and Premier Access®, which grants priority check-in, expedited baggage handling, and additional perks.
- Lounge Offerings: Business class travelers on long-haul flights from EWR and JFK can access exclusive Polaris Lounges. They offer spa-like showers, private rest areas, and gourmet dining. At EWR, the lounge is located in Terminal C, and at JFK, it’s in Terminal 7. Additionally, United Club lounges at these airports provide food, drinks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and other amenities. These lounges are accessible to United Polaris, United Business, and Star Alliance premium travelers.
- Baggage Allowance: Business class tickets allow two free checked bags, each weighing up to 70 lbs. MileagePlus Premier members and up to nine companions on the same reservation can also check bags at no charge. Higher-tier members like Silver, Gold, Platinum, and 1K can check three bags, each weighing up to 70 lbs, at no extra cost.
- Cabin and Seating: United Polaris offers fully reclining seats that convert into lie-flat beds for added comfort and luxury. On the Boeing 767-300ER flying from New York to Brussels, these seats transform into flat beds with approximately 6 feet of sleeping space. Each seat is equipped with a 15-inch entertainment screen offering a broad range of movies, TV shows, and music to ensure an enjoyable in-flight experience.
- Food and Beverages: United Polaris provides a multi-course dining experience. It starts with a pre-meal beverage service, followed by a cart offering salads, appetizers, bread, and wine. The meal concludes with a dessert cart. Morning travelers can choose between water or a mimosa, while evening flights offer a selection of sparkling wine or water to begin the meal.
- Business Class Upgrade Options: United Airlines offers several upgrade options. They include opportunities for Premier elite members, using miles, qualifying for complimentary upgrades, or purchasing a full-fare economy ticket that comes with an instant upgrade. The cost to upgrade from economy to business class depends on factors like the route, flight duration, demand, fare class, and the timing of the upgrade.
Lufthansa Business Class
- Airport Services: If you opt for Lufthansa's one-stop flights with a layover in Frankfurt, you'll experience premium amenities at their main hub. They include dedicated check-in areas and fast-track security. At JFK and EWR, business class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members also enjoy dedicated check-in desks and priority boarding privileges. Additionally, priority security lanes at both airports make departures more efficient. These services mirror the premium experience offered at Frankfurt, ensuring a seamless journey from start to finish.
- Lounge Offerings: Business class travelers flying Lufthansa from JFK or EWR to BRU can access Lufthansa or partner lounges at both airports. These lounges offer comfortable relaxation areas, a variety of food and drink options, fast Wi-Fi, workstations, and showers. In Frankfurt, for those continuing with a layover, Lufthansa Business or Senator lounges are available. They offer similar premium amenities for a comfortable transit.
- Baggage Allowance: Business class passengers can check in two bags, each weighing up to 70.5 lbs. Senators, HON Circle Members, and Star Alliance Gold Members are allowed to check three bags of the same weight. For carry-on, business class travelers may bring two items, with each weighing up to 17 lbs.
- Cabin and Seating: On the New York to Brussels route, Lufthansa offers a mix of business class configurations. The new Allegris cabin is available on select Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A350 aircraft. This cabin features lie-flat beds, greater privacy, and a 1-2-1 or 1-1-1 layout, ensuring direct aisle access for all passengers. However, some flights still use older aircraft, like the Boeing 747, which retain the 2-2-2 configuration. Retrofits to upgrade these cabins to the Allegris standard are planned for the future.
- Food and Beverages: Lufthansa’s business class dining mirrors a first-class experience, with meals served on linen-lined tables and personalized service from dedicated attendants. Passengers enjoy gourmet starters, main courses, and desserts, along with snacks and a full bar. It offers Champagne, wine, beer, and other beverages.
- Business Class Upgrade Options: Lufthansa offers paid business class upgrades on a per-segment basis after booking, though complimentary upgrades are rare. Miles & More members typically need 20,000 to 50,000 miles per segment for upgrades, depending on the fare class. As part of Star Alliance, Lufthansa allows passengers to earn and redeem miles across partner airlines. Upgrade availability through other Star Alliance programs may vary based on the fare booked.
Delta Air Lines Business Class
- Airport Services: Delta One is Delta’s premium business class product on international routes, offering the highest level of service. Passengers flying Delta One from JFK and EWR to BRU enjoy several exclusive perks. They include dedicated check-in counters, expedited security screening via TSA PreCheck or priority lanes, access to the Delta Sky Club lounges, and priority boarding and baggage handling.
- Lounge Offerings: At JFK, Delta One passengers can enjoy the Delta Sky Club in Terminal 4. This lounge offers premium food and drinks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and shower suites to help you refresh before your flight. The lounge provides plenty of seating and a tranquil environment, ideal for relaxing before boarding. At EWR, Delta One travelers can access the Delta Sky Club in Terminal B. This lounge offers similar amenities like snacks, beverages, workstations, and fast Wi-Fi. Delta One passengers may also access SkyTeam partner lounges, depending on availability.
- Baggage Allowance: Delta offers carry-on baggage at no extra charge. Passengers are allowed one personal item and one carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bin. Delta One travelers on flights from JFK or EWR to BRU can check two bags for free, each weighing up to 70 lbs and with total dimensions not exceeding 62 linear inches.
- Cabin and Seating: The Boeing 767-300ER is the primary aircraft used on the EWR and JFK routes to BRU. In Delta One business class, passengers enjoy 80-inch lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing direct aisle access for each seat. However, reviews note that the seats offer limited storage space and only have one charging outlet with a USB port per passenger.
- Food and Beverages: Delta One passengers flying from EWR or JFK to BRU are greeted with a choice of juice or sparkling wine as a pre-departure drink. Before takeoff, the crew provides a menu outlining main course options, along with a QR code for the full digital menu. After takeoff, the beverage service begins with snacks like cheese, dried fruit, and nuts. Appetizers usually consist of soup, salad, and a warm roll. The main course typically features three options plus a dessert. Throughout the flight, a snack basket with cookies, pistachios, chips, and fresh fruit is available for guests to enjoy at their leisure.
- Business Class Upgrade Options: Upgrades are available for most ticketed passengers, including those in Main Cabin, Delta Comfort+, and Delta Premium Select, but not for Basic Economy. These upgrades can be applied to paid tickets, Pay with Miles, and upgrade certificates. Delta values SkyMiles at approximately 1.07 cents per mile, meaning a $60 upgrade could cost around 5,600 SkyMiles. Better value can often be found when using miles for award tickets. However, upgrade certificates (available to Diamond Medallion members) allow for prioritized upgrade requests. Keep in mind that they don't guarantee a seat. If an upgrade is unavailable, the certificate will return to your account for future use.
Getting through Brussels Airport for a smooth arrival in the city
Brussels Airport (BRU) is Belgium's largest airport, located approximately 7.5 miles northeast of Brussels. It accommodates around 26 million passengers each year and features a single terminal divided into three concourses: A, B, and T. The airport provides essential services, including shops, dining options, and car rentals.
Business class passengers enjoy benefits upon arrival, such as priority disembarkation and expedited baggage handling, ensuring a swift transition to ground transportation. The airport offers a variety of dining options showcasing Belgian specialties. They include chocolates and beers, allowing travelers to savor a taste of Belgium before they depart.
BRU also boasts several premium lounges, such as The Loft by Brussels Airlines and the Diamond Lounge. They provide a relaxing environment with showers, food, beverages, and quiet workspaces. Access to these lounges is available for business class travelers and elite status holders flying on Star Alliance airlines, like Lufthansa and United.
With its straightforward layout, BRU makes navigation through customs and baggage claim easy. The airport's excellent connectivity makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Belgium.
Pro-tips for a memorable and hassle-free journey to Brussels
- Travel Alone? Choose a Solo Traveler Seat for Better Comfort: Odd-numbered window seats, like 3A, often provide more legroom and space. This makes them ideal for longer flights. This advice is particularly relevant for the JFK/EWR to BRU route on airlines such as Delta, Lufthansa, and United, which typically feature 1-2-1 seating arrangements. However, configurations may vary by airline and aircraft. So, check the seat map for your specific flight to ensure you select the best option for your needs.
- Plan Essentials in Advance: Booking early sets the stage for a smooth vacation or business trip, helping you avoid last-minute stress. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your arrangements are in place! Additionally, Priceline offers personalized booking suggestions. Bundling your accommodations, flights, and rental cars into one purchase can also lead to significant savings.
- Select Your Travel Dates Carefully: Summer, especially June through August, is peak tourist season in Brussels. Travelers enjoy mild temperatures in the mid-70s°F and a lively atmosphere filled with festivals. For cooler weather, fewer crowds, and better rates on hotels and flights, consider visiting in spring or fall. Winters can be cold, often dropping below 32°F. But the city’s charming Christmas markets and festive decorations make it a delightful destination during the holiday season.
- Score a Deal on Priceline: Our trusted online travel platform features a best price guarantee, ensuring you receive the best value if you find a lower price elsewhere. Sign up for Priceline’s free VIP Rewards Program to qualify for a refund if you discover a better deal within 24 hours of booking.
- Enhance Flexibility: Being flexible with your travel dates can greatly improve your chances of finding excellent deals. Consider flights with longer stopovers to save on fares while allowing you to explore an additional city. If you're traveling around holidays but aren't fixed on specific dates, flying further from the holiday can often be cheaper. For instance, if the holiday falls on a Monday, flying the Tuesday before is typically less expensive than traveling on Friday. Additionally, flying on the holiday itself, such as Christmas or Thanksgiving, is usually more affordable than on the surrounding days.
FAQs
What is the flight duration from New York to Brussels, Belgium?
Nonstop flights from JFK or EWR to BRU typically take 7 to 7.5 hours. In contrast, one-stop flights can vary widely, lasting anywhere from 10 to 23 hours based on layover duration and flight path. Your choice between nonstop and connecting flights will depend on your priorities regarding time, cost, and convenience.
What is the main advantage of flying business class to Brussels?
On long-haul flights, space is essential. Business class typically offers lie-flat beds and direct aisle access, ensuring exceptional comfort. Arriving well-rested allows you to make the most of your first day at your destination, while the extended flight time lets you fully enjoy the premium amenities offered in this class.
Which airlines provide the top business class experience to Brussels?
Lufthansa, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines are top choices for business class travel to Brussels. Each airline offers frequent nonstop or efficient one-stop flights, complete with lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, and excellent service. Lufthansa stands out with dedicated check-in and fast-track security at Brussels Airport. Delta's business class, known as Delta One, provides a luxurious in-flight experience featuring multi-course meals and comfortable seating. United Airlines' Polaris business class also ensures a premium experience with exceptional dining and entertainment options.
Is meal pre-ordering available on business class flights to Brussels?
Yes, it is! In Lufthansa business class, passengers can pre-order their hot main course for the first meal onboard between four weeks and 24 hours before departure. Special meal requests must be made during booking or through the airline's service center. United Airlines Polaris travelers can choose their meals from five days up to 24 hours before the flight. Delta One passengers can also pre-select their meals up to 24 hours prior to departure.
Which day offers the lowest business class fares to Brussels?
Wednesdays and Saturdays are usually the most affordable days to fly, with Wednesday flights to Brussels often saving you about 10% compared to the more expensive Friday flights. These days also experience lighter crowds than Mondays, Fridays, and Sundays. Traveling during the off-season can further increase savings and minimize tourist traffic. In Brussels, the off-season typically occurs during the winter months, excluding the holiday season, particularly from January to March and parts of November.