Ostend–Bruges International Airport


Ostend–Bruges International Airport , commonly known simply as Ostend Airport, is an international airport located south southwest of Ostend, West Flanders in the Flemish Region of Belgium, near the coast and about from the city centre of Bruges. Although freight transport is the focus of a large proportion of its activities, the airport is increasingly used for passenger flights, mainly charter and holiday flights organised by tour operators. It is also often used for private business flights.

History

During the Second World War, the Luftwaffe moved the airfield of Ostend-Stene to a site in the territory of the municipality of Middelkerke, five kilometres southwest of Ostend. It played a major role in the air battle with Britain. After the war, the airport of Raversijde-Middelkerke was turned into an international airport by the Department of Airways which had been established by that time.
In 1992, the ownership of the regional Flemish airport was transferred from the Belgian State to the Flemish Region. The airport was given a new name: "Ostend–Bruges International Airport".
On 23 May 2003, Mr. Gino Vanspauwen was appointed CEO/Managing Director of Ostend–Bruges International Airport by the Flemish government. He effectively took up his duties on 1 June 2003. The airport was operated by the Department of Mobility and Public Works of the Flemish government. The Flemish Government made an agreement with Egis Group to operate it starting 2014 for a duration of 25 years. Between May and December 2003, Ryanair operated a route between Ostend and London-Stansted.
For 2015, Jetairfly began service to a number of new destinations from Ostend. In the summer season of 2015, Jetairfly operated services to a total 20 destinations. As of summer 2017, these services are operated under the new name of TUI fly Belgium, with 21 destinations.

Airlines and destinations

Passenger

The following airlines operate regular scheduled and seasonal flights at Ostend–Bruges International Airport:

Cargo

Ground transportation

By car

The airport is located next to the N318 and N341 national roads.

By bus

Bus 6 connects the airport to Ostend's city centre as well as Ostend railway station which operates intercity trains to Antwerp, Brussels and Liege. The bus is operated by De Lijn.

Accidents and incidents