Zaventem

Zaventem is a municipality in the Belgian province of Flemish Brabant, located to the east of the Brussels-Capital Region and part of the Brussels metropolitan area. The municipality comprises the towns of Zaventem and Diegem, the latter now a major business and logistics district adjacent to the airport site.

Brussels Airport, the largest airport in Belgium and a major international hub, lies on the territory of Zaventem and Diegem. The airport began operation in the mid-20th century and serves a wide network of European and intercontinental destinations. Its presence significantly shapes the local economy, employment, and transport infrastructure, and it remains a key factor in regional planning.

Zaventem is connected by road and rail to Brussels and the wider region. It sits near major motorways including the Brussels Ring Road and the E40 corridor, and is served by the Brussels Airport–Zaventem railway station, which provides direct rail links to central Brussels and to other Belgian cities.

Demographically, the municipality has a population consisting largely of Dutch speakers, in keeping with its location in the Flemish Region, while the airport and surrounding business districts attract international workers and commuters, contributing to linguistic and cultural diversity.

Local governance is provided by a municipal council led by a mayor. Zaventem’s economy is heavily influenced by the airport and related services, with ongoing development of business parks and logistics facilities that complement residential areas.