Brussels Airlines has added a striking new aircraft to its fleet, paying tribute to one of Belgium’s most iconic landmarks—the Atomium. This latest addition celebrates the nation’s architectural marvel with a custom livery that transforms the plane into a flying piece of art.
The unveiling took place in a special ceremony inside Brussels Airlines’ Maintenance & Engineering hangar, where aviation enthusiasts, industry professionals, and local dignitaries gathered to witness the grand reveal. The Atomium-themed aircraft joins the exclusive lineup of Belgian Icons—planes that highlight the country’s cultural heritage and global influence.
A Masterpiece in the Sky
Bringing this vision to life required over 400 liters of paint and approximately 2,400 hours of meticulous work. The design was crafted by renowned airbrush artist André Eisele, who has also worked on Brussels Airlines’ previous Belgian Icon planes. His expertise ensured that the aircraft captures the elegance, innovation, and futuristic appeal of the Atomium.
The journey to this final design began in August when Brussels Airlines launched a nationwide contest inviting Belgians to submit creative concepts that embody the essence of their country. The competition attracted more than 900 submissions, each highlighting Belgium’s diverse cultural elements—from cycling and Art Nouveau to beloved comic book characters. After a rigorous selection process, a public vote narrowed the entries down to five finalists.
A distinguished panel of judges, including Belgian singer Sandra Kim, musician Alex Callier, artist Philippe Geluck, and designer Gabrielle Szwarcenberg, ultimately selected the winning design by architect Thomas Faes. Inspired by his childhood admiration for the Atomium, Faes translated his architectural expertise into a design that seamlessly blends historical significance with modern aesthetics.
“There are many similarities between designing a building and creating an aircraft livery,” Faes noted. “Both require careful planning, technical precision, and a deep understanding of visual impact. Seeing the transition from concept to reality has been an unforgettable journey.”
A Symbol of National Pride
For Brussels Airlines, this new aircraft is more than just a striking visual—it’s a representation of Belgium’s rich history and forward-thinking spirit. CEO Dorothea von Boxberg emphasized the significance of the Atomium in the airline’s identity.
“Choosing Thomas Faes’ design was the perfect decision,” von Boxberg stated. “The Atomium has long been woven into our brand, from the red dots in our logo to the patterns on our uniforms. I’m thrilled to see it take flight as the latest member of our Belgian Icons family.”
This Atomium-themed aircraft will now serve as an airborne ambassador, carrying Belgium’s legacy across the world for the next five years.
