Brussels Airport, Liège Airport and Ostend-Bruges Airport are joining forces to implement a unified digital framework for air cargo customs processes, marking a significant step toward standardising how import, export and transit declarations are exchanged with Belgian Customs.
The initiative is being coordinated by Air Cargo Belgium together with LGG Connect, with all three airports aligning their community platforms to operate under the same principles and interfaces. The goal is to enable a consistent, interoperable system through which cargo operators can submit customs declarations across Belgium’s main air gateways in a harmonised way.
At the core of the project is a shared transition toward Belgium’s broader customs modernisation strategy, moving from the current Paperless Customs and Excise system toward the EU’s MASP-C programme, the multi-annual framework designed to fully digitise customs processes across Europe.
Within this structure, air cargo companies will be able to submit Temporary Storage Declarations directly through airport digital platforms: BRUCloud at Brussels Airport and LGG Tracking at Liège Airport. Both systems will function in the same way and will be directly connected to national electronic customs systems, enabling automated processing and feedback loops. Customs confirmation messages will then be returned to operators via the same portals.
The unified approach is designed to improve efficiency, transparency and consistency across Belgian air cargo operations, while also strengthening the country’s position as a competitive European logistics hub. By standardising processes across multiple airports, authorities expect to make Belgian gateways more attractive for international trade flows.
The rollout is in development and is expected to be fully functional by the end of 2026.
Today, parts of customs communication are still handled through the Paperless Customs and Excise system, but the new initiative marks a structural shift toward fully digital, platform-based interactions aligned with EU-wide reform objectives.
The collaboration between Brussels Airport, Liège Airport and Ostend-Bruges Airport is being described as unique within Belgian aviation, particularly given the coordinated nature of the rollout across competing airport platforms.
Air Cargo Belgium and LGG Connect are leading the coordination effort between stakeholders, ensuring alignment between operators, handlers and customs authorities.
“Brussels Airport has been committed to the digitalisation of cargo processes for years,” said Arnaud Feist, CEO of Brussels Airport. “The development of this new digital integration is fully in line with our strategy to further strengthen the efficiency of air cargo operations through innovative and digital solutions. At the same time, we are contributing to a unified approach at the Belgian level, making Brussels Airport and our country even more interesting as a logistics hub for international trade.”
Freek De Witte, Director at Air Cargo Belgium, highlighted the institutional coordination behind the project, noting the organisation’s role in bridging operators and customs authorities through established agreements and governance frameworks.
Laurent Jossart, CEO of Liège Airport, added that the initiative reflects a broader commitment to digital innovation and operational transparency across the cargo ecosystem, with the aim of improving efficiency, compliance and service quality for all stakeholders involved in international trade flows.
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