'Family lane' at Brussels Airport security over Christmas

During the Christmas holiday period, Brussels Airport will open a family lane with a new security procedure specially adapted for families with young children.

Some 180,000 passengers are expected to travel to and from the capital over the course of the holidays. Friday 23 December will see around 65,000 departures, according to the airport.

“During these busy days, families with young children will be invited to use the Family Lane to pass through hand luggage control," the airport said.

"They will thus have maximum space, and time to be spent looking after their children, while benefiting from additional support for strollers and baby food."

The family lane was first tested out in early July. "Those of us who work at Brussels Airport also include mothers and fathers, so we know that air travel can be especially stressful for children," the airport said at the time.

A new drop-off area has also been opened, located at the airport bus station. If friends or family intend to accompany a passenger to the departure hall they must park in the P1, P2 or P3 car parks at a rate of €2 per hour.

The airport stressed that passengers will not be able to park outside the departures hall as was the case prior to the 22 March attacks.