Here’s a brief recap of what happened in the lounge universe in January – mostly positive news, with one exception: new lounges in Sydney and Norway, refurbished lounges at Honolulu airport and JFK, and the closure of the United Club in Atlanta.
SkyTeam opens a new lounge at Sydney airport
SkyTeam has opened a new lounge in Sydney. With seating capacity for 140 guests, the lounge uses the same design language as the other SkyTeam-branded lounges in London and Istanbul, including the green wall. The facility boasts fantastic airport and tarmac views, and offers international-grade amenities such as WiFi, hot and cold entrees, complimentary alcoholic drinks including Champagne, massage chairs, and showers.
The Skyteam Exclusive lounge network is expanding rapidly, with new locations in Dubai, Beijing and Hong Kong set to open by the end of the year.
For more information and a 360 degree virtual overview of the new lounge, go to skyteam.com.
The new SkyTeam Exclusive Lounge at Sydney airport. © SkyTeam
United closes the United Club in Atlanta
The United Club location in Atlanta closed on January 31st, 2015, ahead of United’s move to Concourse T. United Club members and elite passengers on international itineraries are currently left without alternatives. The small club in Atlanta was pretty basic but a welcome amenity in Delta-land. While United has not announced plans for a new club in Atlanta, an analysis of the Concourse T renovation plans indicates that a new lounge may be planned on the upper level.
The former United Club in Atlanta
Lufthansa renovates their lounges in New York JFK
The scale of Lufthansa’s investments at New York JFK reflects their commitment to the city – the airline operates a whopping three lounges, with a ground floor Business Lounge, an elegant upper floor Senator Lounge, and a mezzanine First Class dining area offering full premium restaurant service and a broad beverage selection.
With little warning except for a note on their web site, the airline recently started refurbishing the facilities. Until February 8, the entrance will be located landside (outside security) and, while construction is ongoing, First Class passengers and HON Circle Members may use the Air France Lounge, while Miles&More Senators may visit the Korean Air Lounge, both located inside security.
Lufthansa Senator Lounge at New York JFK
Hawaiian Airlines unveils their first renovated lounge in Honolulu
We recently reported on Hawaiian Airlines’ plan to refurbish every Premier Club in Hawaii throughout 2015. The first renovated lounge at Honolulu (HNL) has just reopened, featuring a modern and fresh design, great views, and plenty of power outlets. Food and beverages as well as access rules remain unchanged.
SAS to introduce new Café Lounges in Norway
SAS has announced the opening of Café Lounges at Trondheim and Tromsø airports in the April-May timeframe. Located close to the departure gates, the lounges offer a cozy waiting area with complimentary WiFi and refreshments. They are a welcome addition to smaller airports which do not feature traditional larger lounges.
Write a comment or reply