Today’s travelers expect a lot from their pre-flight experiences – and these lounge acts are up to the task
As the competition for premium travelers grows more intense, airlines and airports are concentrating more resources at the beginning of the trip. The result is a host of new lounge experiences cropping up in airports around the world. With the relentless growth of airline traffic, frequent fliers are seeking more than just serenity and a snack in those moments prior to boarding. In addition to peace and quiet, what these travelers expect is a top-end dining experience, technology that works and a little something special in the way of customer service.
Here’s a look at some of the latest lounge launches and product innovations around the world.
THE AMERICAS
UNITED POLARIS LOUNGE
LOCATION Chicago O’Hare International Airport near Gate C18.
INFO The Polaris Lounge was designed to complement the Polaris business class seat. The lounge features a number of semi-private seats that are spacious and quiet. The lounge offers an upscale dining experience, including a buffet and salad bar. There is also a complimentary full-service restaurant.
Eight more Polaris Lounges are scheduled to open in the following cities – Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, New York/ Newark, Washington Dulles, Tokyo Narita, Hong Kong and London Heathrow.
ELIGIBILITY United Polaris business and first class customers, as well as Star Alliance premium passengers departing on international flights. However, United Club members and Star Alliance Gold members do not have access unless they are ticketed in business class.
THE CLUB LOCATION Boston Logan International Airport Terminal E INFO The second independent lounge by Airport Lounge Development group will have a two-phase opening at Boston Logan. The first phase is now operating from 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM offering guests premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, WiFi, power outlets throughout, flat-screen televisions, a variety of reading materials and more, The second phase will happen this summer, which will include an updated 3,506 square feet of space with new restrooms and shower facilities.
ELIGIBILITY Access to the lounge is available to travelers through the purchase of a day pass online or at the lounge. It is also available to members of Priority Pass, LoungeKey and Lounge Club, in addition to premium passengers of participating airlines.
STAR ALLIANCE LOUNGE
LOCATION Rio de Janeiro’s Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport level 3 of the new international departures pier in terminal 2
INFO The 6,500-square-foot lounge is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and offers seating for more than 150 guests with views across the airport and beyond. Views across the airport and beyond to key Rio de Janeiro landmarks – Sugar Loaf and Christ the Redeemer – are visible in the distance.
ELIGIBILITY
Passengers traveling on Star Alliance flights in either First or Business Class or to those holding Star Alliance Gold status. In addition the lounge is open to Air Canada Maple Leaf worldwide card holders and United Club members traveling in Economy Class.
TURKISH AIRLINES
LOCATION Dulles International Airport, Washington, DC.
INFO
The Turkish Airlines lounges at Dulles is the first in the US for the airline. The lounge offers a food and beverage buffet, showers and bathroom facilities, free WiFi, a business area, prayer and relaxation rooms, a direct connection to the Aerobridge, and entertainment.
ELIGIBILITY The facility serves Turkish Air Business Class and Star Alliance passengers.
EUROPE
QATAR AIRWAYS PREMIUM LOUNGE
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