Brussels Airlines, in a unique celebration of Belgian heritage, has unveiled its latest “Belgian Icon”. This takes the form of an Airbus A320 adorned with a stunning design inspired by the iconic Atomium.
This striking aircraft, bearing the registration OO-SNM, is the result of a collaborative project with the Atomium, bringing a piece of Belgium’s architectural marvel to the skies.
The journey to this moment began last August when Brussels Airlines launched a nationwide contest, inviting Belgians and residents to submit designs that captured the essence of their nation.
The response was overwhelming, with over 900 creative entries showcasing the country’s rich tapestry of culture. Submissions ranged from cycling and Art Nouveau to beloved comic book characters and, of course, the Atomium.
Atomium Design Selection
A rigorous selection process included a public vote of over 50,000 participants and a deliberation by a distinguished jury. This comprised singer Sandra Kim, musician Alex Callier, artist Philippe Geluck, and designer Gabrielle Szwarcenberg.
After careful deliberation, the Atomium design by architect Thomas Faes (Faes Architecture) emerged as the winner.
Faes’s design resonated deeply with the jury, capturing the historical significance and timeless appeal of the Atomium. His lifelong fascination with the structure, stemming from childhood, fueled his meticulous and technical design approach.
“There are many parallels between an architectural project and the design of an aircraft livery,” Faes explained. “Both involve a series of stages to complete and constraints to consider.” He highlighted the emotional journey and the moment of seeing his 3D simulation come to life as particularly memorable.
Atomium “A Perfect Fit”
Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO of Brussels Airlines, emphasized the perfect fit of Faes’s design. “The Atomium has long been woven into our identity.” She expressed her delight in welcoming the new addition to the Belgian Icons family, which will grace the skies for the next five years.
The transformation of Faes’s concept into a flying masterpiece required a fairly rigorous process. Brussels Airlines’ marketing team refined the design to meet all technical specifications.
The painting process alone consumed over 400 liters of paint and 2,400 hours of labor. Renowned XXL airbrush artist André Eisele, a veteran of all eight previous Belgian Icons was instrumental in the process. He skillfully brought the Atomium to life on the aircraft’s exterior.
The interior of OO-SNM is equally captivating, offering passengers a journey through the Atomium’s history.
Inside the aircraft, the cabin design tells the story of this iconic monument. It features original sketches and historical photos of its 1958 construction to contemporary imagery.
Julie Almau Gonzalez, General Director of the Atomium, lauded the collaboration as a “perfect union of two Belgian icons.”
She emphasized the shared mission of showcasing Belgium’s innovation and creativity to the world, stating, “Seeing our beloved monument soaring through the skies is not only a stunning visual tribute but also a powerful symbol of our shared mission to showcase the best of Belgium internationally.”
Aircraft Grand Reveal
The grand reveal of the “Atomium” aircraft took place at a special event held in Brussels Airlines’ Maintenance & Engineering hangar, where media, guests, and employees gathered to witness the unveiling. The aircraft’s maiden commercial flight is scheduled for 27 March 2025, departing for Prague at 9:25 am.
This new Belgian Icon joins a prestigious lineup, reinforcing Brussels Airlines’ commitment to promoting local heritage on a global stage.
The “Atomium” aircraft is a flying tribute to Belgian pride, innovation, and creativity, bringing a piece of the nation’s heart to every corner of the world it reaches.
This aircraft is a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring appeal of one of Belgium’s most celebrated landmarks.
The blend of architectural design and aviation engineering has created a unique flying experience for passengers, a visual story that elevates the journey itself.
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