Brussels Airlines records profit in 2016 despite terrorist attacks

Brussels Airlines CFO Jan De Raeymaeker stated (16-Mar-2017) despite the terrorist attacks of 22-Mar-2016 and very strong low cost competition, Brussels Airlines closed 2016 with a profit. Mr Raeymaeker said: "Brussels Airlines' financial results were largely influenced by the attacks that hit Brussels last year. Before 22 March, Brussels Airlines was heading for a record year and was registering strong growth. Following the attacks, and the 12-day closure of Brussels Airport, however, there was a sharp decrease in the number of passengers - especially with regards to incoming business traffic". The direct financial impact of the attacks amounted to more than EUR100 million. Only a portion thereof could be offset through compensations already granted by the insurance companies or estimated to be granted in the future. [more - original PR]