25 years after the bankruptcy of Sabena: how healthy is its successor Brussels Airlines?

Brussels Airlines reported a record adjusted operating profit of 84 million euros for Q3 2026, a 23.5% increase from the previous year. Despite this success, aviation economist Wouter Dewulf expresses concerns about the airline's thin profit margins and its position within the Lufthansa group. The company aims for an 8% profit margin but has only achieved 1.9% so far this year. Rising fuel costs due to geopolitical tensions have also impacted profitability. While Brussels Airlines remains optimistic about future profitability, Dewulf warns that the airline may struggle to stand out among larger competitors.