Why do we need to pay Brussels Airport Supplement?

Public transportation in China is incredibly affordable. For instance, taking the subway in Shanghai typically costs only 4 to 6 RMB (approximately €0.5 to €0.8). That’s pocket change! 🤑 As someone used to this cost-efficiency, traveling in Belgium, or any other European country, feels like public transport is reaching directly into my wallet! 😂💸

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The Brussels Airport Supplement: My “Door Shock” Moment 🚪😱

So, imagine my reaction when I discovered the infamous Brussels Airport Supplement! I was shocked to learn that I needed to buy an additional ticket just to access the airport via train. That’s right, this isn’t about your regular train fare; it’s an extra charge simply to go through the “airport door.” 🤑 Talk about an expensive entrance fee! 😬✈️

Screenshot of the SNCB supplement ticket.

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Why Is There a Supplement? 💡

After some digging, I discovered that this charge is linked to the Diabolo Project, which simplifies train connections to Brussels Airport for people in cities like Antwerp, Leuven, and Namur. Here’s how it works:

• Public/Private Partnership: The Diabolo Project is funded by Northern Diabolo NV through a public-private model.
• User-Pays Principle: The cost of this project is passed directly to passengers who use it, via a supplement added to your train ticket.
• Good News for Non-Users: If you don’t take the train to the airport, you don’t have to pay for this infrastructure. Fair enough, right? 🤔

You can read more about the supplement on the SNCB portal.

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The China Difference 🇨🇳💰🚇

In contrast, public transportation in China operates on a heavily subsidized model, making it accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional traveler, the government ensures that public transport remains affordable and inclusive.

For example:

• Subsidized Infrastructure: Massive investments in metro systems don’t directly impact ticket prices.
• Flat or Low Pricing: Even premium routes like airport express trains cost far less compared to European standards.

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A Global Perspective 🌍

Interestingly, similar supplement tickets exist at other airports worldwide, such as Copenhagen Airport, Frankfurt Airport, and Oslo Airport. These charges are often justified by specific infrastructure projects or enhancements aimed at improving airport connectivity. If I get the chance to travel more, I’d love to explore how these systems compare! ✈️🛤️

While the user-pays model in Belgium is logical, it ensures that only those who use the service cover its costs, it contrasts sharply with China’s government-funded approach. Each has its merits, but I must admit, my wallet definitely misses China’s affordable transport! 😅💼

One question lingers in my mind: if projects like Diabolo earn enough money over time, for example, after ten years, when ticket revenue covers the project’s expenses, will they still charge the supplement? Or will it be removed? 🫣🫣