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DB and Brussels Airlines to Launch Direct ICE to Brussels Airport on Sept. 7, 2026

The intermodal tie-up provides a single ticket with connection guarantees to streamline rail-to-air travel for western Germany.

Overview

  • The new route will be the first direct ICE link to Brussels Airport, removing the need to change at Brussels-Midi.
  • Two daily train pairs will run between Cologne Hauptbahnhof and the airport, covering the trip in about two hours with a morning arrival at 8:29.
  • DB will operate ICE 3neo trains on the line, featuring wider doorways, upgraded passenger information and improved accessibility.
  • The codeshare-style product mirrors Lufthansa Express Rail, bundling train and flight on one ticket with delay protection, free seat reservation, a CityTicket for Cologne and Aachen, and mileage credits.
  • Tickets are already on sale via travel agencies, online flight portals, and the Brussels Airlines and Lufthansa websites, with lounge access in Cologne for eligible premium customers.