Brussels Expo58 Heliport

The heliport was a temporary facility built specifically to serve the 1958 Brussels World's Fair (Expo 58). It was designed for the duration of the event, which ran from April 17 to October 19, 1958. With the conclusion of the exposition, the massive influx of visitors ceased, and the primary purpose and economic justification for the heliport disappeared. It was subsequently closed and dismantled as it was never intended for permanent operation.

The heliport and its architecturally significant terminal building were demolished in the years following the fair. The site, located on the Heysel Plateau directly adjacent to the Atomium and the Brussels Expo halls, has been completely redeveloped. Today, the exact location is primarily occupied by 'Parking C', a large surface parking lot that serves the Brussels Expo complex, the Kinepolis Cinema, and other attractions in the area. No physical remnants of the original heliport exist on the site.

The Brussels Expo58 Heliport holds a significant place in aviation history as one of the world's first and largest heliports dedicated to international scheduled passenger services. Operated by the Belgian national airline, Sabena, it was a centerpiece of Expo 58, showcasing the future of urban and inter-city air travel. Using a fleet of 12-seater Sikorsky S-58 helicopters, Sabena operated a 'Heli-Bus' network connecting the Expo site directly with heliports in the city centers of Paris (France), Rotterdam (Netherlands), Cologne and Dortmund (Germany), as well as with Brussels' main airport (Zaventem) and a downtown heliport (Allée Verte). The terminal building itself, designed by architect Maxime Brunfaut, was a celebrated example of modernist architecture, featuring a dramatic, cantilevered concrete roof. The entire operation was a symbol of post-war technological optimism and a major attraction of the fair, having transported over 55,000 passengers during the six months of the Expo.

There are zero plans or prospects for reopening the Expo58 Heliport. The facility was temporary by design, and the land has been repurposed for over 60 years. The infrastructure was completely removed, and the site is now an integral part of the Brussels Expo's parking and logistics area. Helicopter services for Brussels are currently handled by the Brussels-Allée Verte Heliport (Heliport de l'Allée Verte - ICAO: EBBR), which is located closer to the city center.