note

Virgin Express started on 23 April 1996, when the Virgin Group (with chairman Richard Branson) bought the Belgian leisure airline EBA (EuroBelgian Airlines) and rebranded it into Virgin Express. It also took over EBA's fleet of Boeing 737s and has operated this type of aircraft ever since. The airline soon concentrated on low-budget scheduled flights out of its Brussels hub and became a major competitor for Sabena and later SN Brussels Airlines. In October 2004, the Virgin Group sold its assets to SN Brussels Airlines and both airlines were integrated into the parent holding company SN Airholding, chaired by Viscount Etienne Davignon. On 31 March 2006, SN Brussels Airlines and Virgin Express announced their fusion into a single company, named Brussels Airlines. The combined airline added long haul destinations and strengthened its position in Africa.

founded - demised (age)

April 23 1996 - March 31 2006  (10)

headquarters

Building 116, Melsbroek Airport, Melsbroek B-1820

web

www.virgin-express.com

base airports

EBBR National Brussels

home base

related operators

SN Brussels Airlines	merged into
EBA - Eurobelgian Airlines	predecessor
Virgin Express France	sister co.
Virgin Express Ireland	sister co.
Brussels Airlines	successor