Skift Take
The arms race in premium lounges continues this year as the majors fight for the most valuable premium flyers.
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This year there have been many new lounges appearing around the world. Each offering a unique level of luxury and identity that has meant a broad and interesting collection of spaces in a variety of spaces. Excellent spaces that didn’t make the list, but should still be commended, include Virgin America’s ‘The Loft‘ in LAX, Hong Kong’s new independent Plaza Lounge and last year’s ‘Dolce Vita’ lounge in Rome for Alitalia.
Whilst there are a few familiar faces compared to last years list, there are some new faces here, showcasing the recent investment into the customer experience in the aviation field. Whilst these lounges have been awarded the recognition on an overall product, from service, to space, to their individuality, it is predominantly the design of the lounges that has the weighing factor.
10. Qatar Airways lounge, London Heathrow Terminal 4
Designed more as a private club than a lounge, Qatar Airways‘ new business class lounge in London Heathrow is a welcome change to the more generic spaces that are gradually fading away at the UK’s main airport. The space features a wealth of zones, from Brasseries to Delicatessens, Showers to IT zones. The Signature Martini bar however is the perfect way to unwind after a long day at work, before boarding a flight to Doha. There is even a wine tasting menu to delve into. The entire space, which has a modern and striking Middle Eastern design, is both elegant and defined and helps lift the otherwise slightly dreary Terminal 4 experience. This combined with the new 787 service from London, is a must-do trip. The touches of Qatar Airways’ Middle Eastern heritage, Arabic calligraphy on walls and carpets, the mosaics and the gentle sounds of water features and atmospheric scents of real olive trees and herbs around the dining areas, this is one fully immersive experience not to be missed.
9. Air New Zealand Lounge, LAX
Opened a little over a month ago, the new Air New Zealand ‘Star Alliance’ Lounge at the Thomas Bradley International Terminal at Los Angeles’ LAX airport is the first indoor/outdoor lounge at the airport. It is a haven for travellers in the new TBIT terminal. It’s not small either, the new premium customer facility offers space for around 400 Business Class and Star Alliance Gold passengers, including an exclusive area for First Class passengers. Designed by
