BRU - Pier A turns 20.

Join this forum to discuss the latest news that happened in the world of commercial aviation.

Moderator: Latest news team

Post Reply
Homo Aeroportus
Posts: 1486
Joined: 24 Feb 2007, 18:28
Location: 2300NM due South of North Pole

BRU - Pier A turns 20.

Post by Homo Aeroportus »

20 years ago, on May 15th 2002, the Pier A was put into operations.
This major project for Brussels Airport was accomplished in less than 4 years. It was severely disrupted by the 11 September 2001 attacks in the USA and by Sabena ceasing activities in November, however decision was taken to carry on and stick to the planned commissioning date.
Inevitably a couple of contractors had to use the very last day to finish in time and after a last check on some facilities till the late evening on the day before, I decided to stay to watch the arrival of the very first flight whose passengers will use the new facilities. It was a Sobelair from AGP if I remember correctly, arriving at 01:30 so technically 15MAY and not a jump start.

Back on the deck at 05:30 for the arrival of the LH flight that was to see the first passengers boarding from that still empty Pier A. And then they came. We were anxiously watching for their reactions when discovering this wonderful Pier we had all worked so hard for, but they were almost none ! Somewhat frustrating but in a way a tribute to those in charge of the design and the signage. Everything was flowing smoothly. Another tribute to those in charge and the importance of an ORAT.
Watching a few more arrivals and departures, a late breakfast and off we go. Pier A is alive and well.
We’ll come back tomorrow for the official inauguration by Prince Philip.

This project was a major achievement for BIAC that was then responsible for the airport activities and whose CEO Pierre Klees was key in getting this off the ground in a complex environment. An interesting and respected character well seconded by his secretaries Patricia and Nicky. Unfortunately, Papa Kilo died recently just one month short of the 20th anniversary of the inauguration.

Fond memories of these years, having had the pleasure to meet and work with many professionals like Mark D, BIAC COO, Paul VD, BIAC VP in charge of the project, Wim VT his deputy, Benoit R., Tractebel engineers, Luc S. general manager of TV IAC, the consortium of companies building the Pier and so many others.

Below is a photo I took shortly after the commissioning.
Although the Pier itself is still looking great after 20 years, this photo shows another era.

EBBR 2002.jpg

H.A.

User avatar
sn26567
Posts: 40815
Joined: 13 Feb 2003, 00:00
Location: Rosières/Rozieren, Belgium
Contact:

Re: BRU - Pier A turns 20.

Post by sn26567 »

Homo Aeroportus wrote: 15 May 2022, 22:48 20 years ago, on May 15th 2002, the Pier A was put into operations.
...
H.A.
Nice report. Pity Brussels Airport doesn't organise any commemoration ceremony!
André
ex Sabena #26567

User avatar
luchtzak
Posts: 11728
Joined: 18 Sep 2002, 00:00
Location: Hofstade, Zemst - Belgium
Contact:

Re: BRU - Pier A turns 20.

Post by luchtzak »

With the infamous tunnel underneath the taxiway. Luckily that changed into a ground-level new part with shops and catering.

Still some work to be done as the drop-off then the dark-grey entrance is not up-level compared to other airports.

Post Reply