Brussels Airlines, has introduced its latest Belgian Icon: “Atomium.” The new livery, designed by Belgian architect Thomas Faes of Faes Architecture, celebrates Belgium’s spirit of creativity and innovation.
Brussels Airlines Atomium: A Tribute to a National Landmark
Airbus A320 (OO-SNM) was delivered this morning in Brussels from the paint shop and will be making its first flight to Prague tomorrow.
At a special unveiling ceremony at Brussels Airlines‘ Maintenance & Engineering hangar, media, invited guests, and employees gathered to witness the big reveal. The “Atomium“ commemorates one of Belgium‘s most recognisable symbols, reflecting the airline‘s dedication to celebrating Belgian culture around the world.
The aircraft is now part of Brussels Airlines‘ prestigious fleet of Belgian Icons, a selection of aircraft that celebrates the country‘s rich heritage, from Tintin to Tomorrowland.
Brussels Airlines Design Contest: From Concept to Takeoff
In August 2024, Brussels Airlines organised a contest where Belgian citizens were invited to devise designs that would reflect the spirit of the country. The answer was resoundingly positive, with more than 900 inventive entries covering themes from cycling and Art Nouveau to comic-strip heroes and the Atomium.
Fifteen finalists were chosen, and a public vote of over 50,000 entries narrowed them to five. A jury of celebrity judges—notably singer Sandra Kim, musician Alex Callier, cartoonist Philippe Geluck, and designer Gabrielle Szwarcberg—ultimately chose Thomas Faes’ Atomium design for its timeless tribute to Belgium’s architectural marvel.
Designer of the Belgian Icon “Atomium”, Thomas Faes , shared :
“There are many parallels between an architectural project and the design of an aircraft livery. Both involve a series of stages to complete and constraints to consider. What stands out most to me of these last months, is the human journey behind it all. However, I will also always remember the first 3D simulation – that moment when you can truly say that it has the desired impact. Equally unforgettable is seeing the aircraft in real life, experiencing that magical transition from concept to reality. I am incredibly proud of the result, which blends elegance with modernity.”
Bringing the Atomium to the Skies
Transforming Faes’ vision into reality required meticulous craftsmanship. Brussels Airlines’ marketing team refined the design to meet technical specifications, while renowned XXL airbrush artist André Eisele—who has worked on all eight previous Belgian Icons—brought it to life. The painting process required over 400 litres of paint and took approximately 2,400 hours to complete.
Inside the aircraft, passengers will find an immersive experience celebrating the Atomium’s history. From original sketches and photos of its 1958 construction to modern-day imagery, the cabin design narrates the journey of Belgium’s most iconic monument.
As the “Atomium” prepares for its first flight, the airline company continues its mission of showcasing Belgium’s cultural treasures in the sky, bringing a little piece of home to travellers around the world.
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