African-Inspired Menus Added to Brussels Airlines Long-Haul Flights in 2026
Brussels Airlines will introduce new meal options inspired by its sub-Saharan African network on long-haul flights arriving in Brussels from January 2026. The update applies to services operated from African destinations within the airline’s route map. As part of the Lufthansa Group, Brussels Airlines serves 18 destinations across sub-Saharan Africa, a region that continues to play a central role in its long-haul strategy.
The airline says the meals will reflect regional cooking styles, ingredients and flavours commonly found across its African routes. The recipes are adjusted to suit onboard preparation, while keeping flavours and ingredients familiar to passengers who know the cuisine. The new options will be offered in both Business and Economy Class and will complement the existing onboard menu rather than replace it.
Rotating dishes inspired by African routes
The first meals confirmed include:
- Cape Malay braised chicken with cashew nuts, mango and coriander in Business Class
- Cod Mbongo, a traditional Cameroonian dish, in Economy Class.
Brussels Airlines plans to rotate menu selections over time, drawing inspiration from different parts of its African network. The airline has not specified how often the menus will change or which destinations will follow.
The introduction follows recent changes to the airline’s onboard dining service. Brussels Airlines has updated tableware and service procedures across its long-haul fleet. On flights departing Brussels, Business Class meals are currently created by Belgian chef Glenn Verhasselt. The airline has also confirmed that a new lounge at Brussels Airport is scheduled to open in summer 2026.
At Brussels Airlines, we aim to offer a product that we call ‘a boutique hotel in the air.’ That means a tailor-made product that makes everyone feel at home. Offering meals inspired by the rich cuisine of the African continent reinforces that promise even further. Whether passengers want a final taste of home, to hold on to the feeling of their vacation a little longer, or to discover new flavors, we are confident these African-inspired meals will be appreciated.
For arriving passengers, the update coincides with easy onward travel options through Brussels Airport. Rail links connect the airport directly with cities such as Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp, while cross-border services make same-day travel into neighbouring countries straightforward. The change underlines how onboard details, including food choices, increasingly shape the travel experience on long-haul routes without altering flight schedules or aircraft.
