Comfort and Joy

In the sky and on the ground, airlines are rolling out a host of new amenities, perks and services

- Ramsey Qubein

THE REBOUND IN air travel occurred faster than anyone may have imagined. But no one may be happier about that than airline management, who have begun restoring and even introducing new amenities and popular perks to the air travel experience. As a result, in-flight service, airport lounges and frequent flier goodies are back in full swing. So, in 2023, passengers have a lot to look forward to, no matter where they are sitting on the plane.

Before takeoff 

American Airlines has taken a fast and furious approach to its lounge network by building swanky new facilities such as the Admirals Club at Washington Reagan National Airport. The carrier is also upgrading other lounges to match the design format, with Austin, Denver and Newark airports first in line.

In 2021, American also made a splash when it launched Flagship Lounge access for premium passengers on qualifying international flights. Flagship Lounge menus received an overhaul thanks to a partnership with the James Beard Foundation and chefs local to each lounge.

At New York-JFK, British Airways has shifted to Terminal 8 to join fellow Oneworld member American Airlines. There, premium customers are directed to one of three new, jointly operated lounges (depending on cabin class and frequent flier status), including one with a dedicated champagne bar.