British Airways premier US lounge reopens

British Airways’ flagship US lounge at JFK’s Terminal 7 will reopen its doors today, Sunday 1 August, following a 16-month closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic. 

The news comes in time for the UK Government’s announcement that double vaccinated travellers from the US will be exempt from quarantine on arrival into the UK from 2nd August.

The opening of the Galleries Club lounge also marks the next step in the airline’s phased lounge reopening plan and will be available for customers travelling in First, Club World and eligible cardholders, ahead of their flight to London Heathrow.

Those flying from JFK in First and Club World can enjoy an enhanced check-in experience at the exclusive Premium Zone.  The First Wing and First check-in are also open to ensure a smooth start to the journey.

British Airways’ customers will now also be able to use the airline’s innovative new digital app ‘Your Menu’ to order food directly from their mobile device to their seat after scanning a QR code. The app will be available throughout the lounge, meaning that customers can select from a wide range of complimentary food and beverages to any seat.

American Express will reopen the new bigger Centurion Lounge at New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

American Express will reopen the new Centurion Lounge at New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and the space will double in size and offer locally inspired amenities that bring New York City's rich culture to life,  at least that's the idea.

With 10,000 square feet in the airport’s brand-new Terminal B, the relocated Lounge is more spacious and more convenient, located after travellers pass through security screening.

According to Amex,  some of the top features include a study space designed in partnership with New York City independent bookstore McNally Jackson, custom design elements from New York-based designers, a menu curated by Wayan’s Cédric Vongerichten, locally inspired beverages, and more.

“We’ve collaborated closely with local partners and small businesses to create a space that embodies some of New York City's most unique experiences,” said Pablo Rivero, Vice President, Loyalty Travel Experiences & Benefits. “With the reopening and expansion of our Centurion Lounge at LaGuardia Airport, we are looking forward to having this lounge join the rest of our Centurion Network and provide eligible Card Members even more places to relax and unwind during their travels.”

This location is the brand’s second outpost in New York City, joining the Centurion Lounge at John F. Kennedy Airport which opened last Fall.

“We’re thrilled to welcome The Centurion Lounge by American Express to LaGuardia Terminal B as another example of the truly exceptional experience travellers can expect at the new terminal. We’re so pleased that Terminal B travellers will have access to this new state-of-the-art lounge where they can rest before their flights and refuel with thoughtfully sourced cuisine and locally inspired refreshments,” said Stewart Steeves, CEO of LaGuardia Gateway Partners, manager and developer of Terminal B.

New Amex Centurion lounge at LaGuardia Airport

American Express will reopen the new Centurion Lounge at New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and the space will double in size and offer locally inspired amenities that bring New York City's rich culture to life,  at least that's the idea.

With 10,000 square feet in the airport’s brand-new Terminal B, the relocated Lounge is more spacious and more convenient, located after travellers pass through security screening.

According to Amex,  some of the top features include a study space designed in partnership with New York City independent bookstore McNally Jackson, custom design elements from New York-based designers, a menu curated by Wayan’s Cédric Vongerichten, locally inspired beverages, and more.

“We’ve collaborated closely with local partners and small businesses to create a space that embodies some of New York City's most unique experiences,” said Pablo Rivero, Vice President, Loyalty Travel Experiences & Benefits. “With the reopening and expansion of our Centurion Lounge at LaGuardia Airport, we are looking forward to having this lounge join the rest of our Centurion Network and provide eligible Card Members even more places to relax and unwind during their travels.”

This location is the brand’s second outpost in New York City, joining the Centurion Lounge at John F. Kennedy Airport which opened last Fall.

“We’re thrilled to welcome The Centurion Lounge by American Express to LaGuardia Terminal B as another example of the truly exceptional experience travellers can expect at the new terminal. We’re so pleased that Terminal B travellers will have access to this new state-of-the-art lounge where they can rest before their flights and refuel with thoughtfully sourced cuisine and locally inspired refreshments,” said Stewart Steeves, CEO of LaGuardia Gateway Partners, manager and developer of Terminal B.

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Lufthansa First Class Lounge in Terminal 1 of Frankfurt Airport reopens

As summer approaches, the desire to travel continues to grow, declining infection rates and the easing of travel restrictions are making more and more people want to fly again. Therefore, as a direct result of that, plus rising booking, the German carrier Lufthansa has decided to reopen the Lufthansa First Class Lounge in Terminal 1 of Frankfurt Airport.  

Relaxing while waiting for departure

The lounge offers an exclusive and comfortable place to relax, while travellers are waiting for their departure. The range of products offered in the lounges have been adjusted to meet current regulations. At present, food and beverage consumption is only permitted outside of the lounge. A take-away offer is available in the First Class Lounge, with a good selection of food and beverages. The popular “á la carte” service will also be resumed as soon as official regulations allow us to do so.

First Class guests can now also enjoy the usual personal service. The First Class Lounge is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Lufthansa lounges open their doors to guests

Lufthansa guests can already access some of the lounges in Germany as well as abroad, such as New York. In the upcoming weeks, additional Lufthansa lounges will gradually be re-opening for customers. Soon, the First Class Terminal and the associated limousine service will also be made available again. A variety of measures, such as maintaining distance and wearing a mouth and nose covering, ensure that the lounge stay meets high safety and hygiene standards.

For more information on lounges and on-site conditions, visit https://www.lufthansa.com/de/en/lounges

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American Express to Open New Centurion Lounge at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Expand Centurion Lounges in Seattle and San Francisco

American Express announced plans to open its 16th Centurion Lounge at Washington, D.C.’s, Reagan National Airport (DCA), and expand its Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) locations. All three locations are expected to open by the end of 2022 with additional updates to be communicated closer to that time.

A recent Amex Trendex* survey found that a majority of consumers (62%) would feel comfortable travelling by plane domestically over the next 6 months. With this in mind, American Express is continuing to grow its premium Centurion Lounge network and enhance travel benefits to support Card Members whenever they choose to travel next. In addition to these updates, the company is continuing to offer elevated health-and-safety practices, as part of the “Centurion Lounge Commitment.”

“We’ve been steadily growing our lounge footprint around the world and are excited to bring a premium lounge experience to Reagan National Airport, and upgrade our lounges at San Francisco International and Seattle-Tacoma International Airports,” said Alexander Lee, Vice President of Travel Experiences & Benefits. “Historically, these are among the top airports our Card Members have travelled through and we want to ensure they have a safe, spacious and comfortable place to relax during their travels today and in the future."

The Nation’s Capital will Welcome a New Centurion Lounge

With floor to ceiling windows, airfield views and one-of-a-kind design elements inspired by the city’s history, the new Centurion Lounge at DCA will span more than 11,500-square-feet. The upcoming lounge in DCA is estimated to open in late 2022, following the airport’s completion of Project Journey, a $1 billion capital improvement project. Built from the ground up, the entrance will be located in National Hall near Terminal B, after security.

In addition to special local touches, the Centurion Lounge will feature signature amenities such as a complimentary custom bar1 and food menu, premium restrooms and shower suites, access to high-speed Wi-Fi, noise-buffering workspaces, and more.

Major Upgrades Coming to Seattle and San Francisco Centurion Lounges

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

The Centurion Lounge at SEA will soon triple in size to over 13,800 square ft and relocate to the mezzanine level of the Central Terminal. With a spacious entrance opening to the Central Terminal, the lounge will feature new seating areas that capitalize on the open-air atrium location. This expanded lounge will welcome Card Members with views of the airfield and Olympic Mountains, additional restrooms, private phone rooms and noise-buffering workspaces, cozy nooks, and more.

San Francisco International Airport

Located in Terminal 3, the Centurion Lounge at SFO will nearly double in size, increasing its footprint to almost 16,000 square feet. It will also introduce a new seasonal menu from Liholiho Yacht Club Executive Chef Ravi Kapur, which will offer clean and vibrant dishes celebrating local purveyors from the Bay Area. New amenities include a second bar and café area, additional restrooms, private phone rooms and even more private workspaces.

Card Members visiting The Centurion Lounges at SEA and SFO will also continue to benefit from elevated health-and-safety practices, as part of the “Centurion Lounge Commitment.”

This announcement comes on the heels of the recent new openings of The Centurion Lounge at Denver International Airport and at John F. Kennedy Airport, showing American Express’ continued commitment to expanding and enhancing The Centurion Lounge network. American Express is also working towards opening its newest lounge location later this year in London’s Heathrow Airport.

Current locations of The Centurion Lounge include Denver International Airport, New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport and LaGuardia Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, San Francisco International Airport, Miami International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Houston’s George Bush International Airport, Hong Kong International Airport, Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, and Philadelphia International Airport. Please visit the Global Lounge Collection website to find a lounge and check on current availability and updated hours. For a contactless check-in experience, Card Members can download the American Express® App and use the Mobile Check-in Feature.

Lounge access is just one of the many ways American Express is backing Card Members’ journeys when they’re ready to travel. Additional offerings available for Platinum Card and Centurion Members through American Express Travel and Concierge, include: access to the Fine Hotels + Resorts program, The Hotel Collection, International Airline Program, The Global Dining Collection, and more.

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A new Centurion Lounge opens at Denver International Airport

American Express opens its 14th Centurion Lounge at Denver International Airport

American Express will open its 14th Centurion Lounge at Denver International Airport on February 1st, 2021, despite the coronavirus pandemic decimating travel demand throughout the world.

The new lounge is located in the Concourse C Mezzanine and covers an area of more than 14,000-square-feet, one of the largest of its kind in the network. The lounge will be the first one to have a live action cooking station, where guests will be able to enjoy dishes prepared à la carte and even customize them to their personal preferences. Amex promises the menu will rotate daily so guests get more choice. 

The Centurion Card,  the most favored card of dictators and despots, will be able to enjoy American Express’ first-ever Craft Beer Bar, which will offer rotating selections of some of Colorado’s best local brews, as well as locally sourced Italian-inspired menu curated by award-winning Chef Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson, design features reminiscent of Denver’s neighboring Rocky Mountains, immersive game options and more.

“We’re excited to unveil a new Centurion Lounge at one of the most frequented airports by our Premium Card Members, Denver International Airport, and provide a safe and comfortable space for our Card Members as they look to start their travels again,” said Alexander Lee, Vice President of Travel Experiences and Benefits. “We collaborated closely with local partners to design a space that brings to life all of the unique offerings of Denver, from their renowned craft brewery and culinary scene, to the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains.”

(All images American Express/Business Wire) 

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Canadian airline WestJet is all set to open flagship lounge at Calgary International Airport on November 2nd

Boasting more than 9,300 square feet of premium space with panoramic views and Canadian-inspired details, the WestJet Elevation Lounge blends contemporary design with refined mountain living inspired by Canada's diverse landscape. The flagship space was designed in collaboration with global architecture and design firm Gensler to carefully consider the needs and safety of guests and frequent travellers. 

"The opening of the WestJet Elevation Lounge is a pivotal moment for our business and demonstrates our commitment to delivering world-class experiences both on the ground and in the air," said Arved von zur Muehlen, WestJet Chief Commercial Officer. "It was only fitting to open this flagship space within our home hub in Calgary. The lounge will provide our top-tier WestJet Rewards members and business cabin travellers with a safe and comfortable place to rest, rejuvenate and work when visiting YYC."

Working in partnership with The Calgary Airport Authority, the Elevation Lounge will open to the public on November 2, 2020 and is conveniently located at Concourse B of the Domestic Terminal and is accessible to guests departing from Concourses A, B and C, as well as Concourse D of the International Terminal (when accessed from security checkpoint B or C).

"The WestJet Elevation Lounge is a global first and we are excited and proud that YYC Calgary International Airport is its home. WestJet is YYC's biggest airline—by seats, by departures and by destinations served. Having the flagship WestJet Elevation Lounge here in Calgary means our mutual guests will have a new premium travel experience with great local amenities at the highest health and safety standards," said Rob Palmer, Vice President of Commercial, Strategy & Chief Financial Officer, The Calgary Airport Authority.

American Express opening Centurion Lounge at New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport - peek inside....

Two-Floor Lounge in Terminal 4 Will Capture the Energy of the City With a Curated Menu by Chef Ignacio Mattos, the First-Ever Speakeasy-Style Bar in a Centurion Lounge and Wellness Offerings From Equinox Body Lab

Thinking outside the blue box, American Express has confirmed its 13th Centurion Lounge will open at John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK)’s Terminal 4 in the coming days. With more than 15,000 square feet, the new space is the largest Centurion Lounge yet and the first with two guest floors.

“Our flagship Centurion Lounge at JFK is our fourth location to open in 2020 and reiterates our commitment to backing our Card Members whenever they may be ready to travel while striving for a safe environment for all,” said Alexander Lee, Vice President of Travel Experiences and Benefits. “Like many of our customers we are proud to call New York City our home, and we are thrilled to have another lounge in our backyard. This new lounge will span two incredible floors and host a variety of amenities that bring New York City culture to life, plus floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views.”

American Express plans to expand two Centurion lounges......

Photo Business Wire/Amex

American Express has announced plans to expand two of its signature Centurion Lounges and introduced The Centurion Lounge Commitment, a set of new health and safety protocols and practices, which will be implemented in all Centurion Lounges as they reopen (some starting in early October). 

The Centurion Lounge at New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) will relocate to a larger location in the brand new Terminal B, and as previously announced, the current Centurion Lounge at Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport (LAS), will be expanded and redesigned.

“The health, safety and comfort of our Card Members and colleagues remains our top priority as we look to expand and reopen our iconic Centurion Lounges around the world,” said Alexander Lee, Vice President Travel Experiences & Benefits. “We believe travel is core to our Card Members’ lifestyles, and like them, we look forward to the day when we can travel the world again - we’re excited to welcome them back into our Centurion Lounges soon.”

Delta offers lounge access at London-Heathrow Terminal 2

Starting today, Delta Air Lines’ premium customers and eligible frequent fliers will be welcomed into the award-winning Plaza Premium lounge at London-Heathrow Terminal 2. 

Following their temporary move to Terminal 2 from Terminal 3, eligible Delta and Virgin Atlantic customers will be able to enjoy complimentary food and beverages in the Plaza Premium lounge before their flight. Delta offers daily flights between Heathrow and New York-JFK and a three-times-a-week service to Atlanta.

Since the pandemic, Delta has implemented a new level of clean – the Delta CareStandard – so customers can travel with confidence. In line with this ethos, Plaza Premium has also enhanced its cleaning and safety measures so customers can feel confident when they use the lounge before they fly. Customers are also encouraged to wear a face covering and practise social distancing.

Monday will see a new lounge open at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at Los Angeles International Airport - American Express open the doors to the latest Centurion Lounge

American Express is poised to open its 12th and largest Centurion Lounge which is located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal at Los Angeles International Airport.   

The massive lounge will open its doors to cardmembers on Monday, March 9th, 2020. and is accessible post-security from Terminals 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 and spans nearly 14,000 square feet. 

“We are transforming LAX into the world-class airport that our guests deserve and adding modern, sought-after amenities that elevate the passenger experience at all points in their journey,” said Justin Erbacci, Interim Chief Executive Officer, LAWA. “The new Centurion Lounge in Tom Bradley International Terminal is an exceptional addition to our airport and we are pleased to work with American Express to open this best-in-class lounge.”

This new location will be a centre of tranquillity to address travellers’ needs with unique spa services and wellness experiences from Exhale, locally inspired and produced artwork by Ellierex and a bespoke menu from Los Angeles-based, award-winning Chef Nancy Silverton.

American Express ready to open its largest Centurion Lounge at Los Angeles International Airport

American Express is poised to open its 12th and largest Centurion Lounge which is located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal at Los Angeles International Airport.   

The massive lounge will open its doors to cardmembers on Monday, March 9th, 2020. and is accessible post-security from Terminals 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 and spans nearly 14,000 square feet. 

“We are transforming LAX into the world-class airport that our guests deserve and adding modern, sought-after amenities that elevate the passenger experience at all points in their journey,” said Justin Erbacci, Interim Chief Executive Officer, LAWA. “The new Centurion Lounge in Tom Bradley International Terminal is an exceptional addition to our airport and we are pleased to work with American Express to open this best-in-class lounge.”

This new location will be a centre of tranquillity to address travellers’ needs with unique spa services and wellness experiences from Exhale, locally inspired and produced artwork by Ellierex and a bespoke menu from Los Angeles-based, award-winning Chef Nancy Silverton.

United Airlines opens new Club Lounge in New Orleans

United Airlines has unveiled its newest addition to its network of United Club locations at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport this weekend.  The new 6,000-square-foot United Club Lounge is located in the airport's brand-new terminal, near gate C7 and offers customers a wide variety of amenities to work, relax and refresh during their travels. 

Amex Centurion Lounge at Charlotte Douglas International Airport opens tomorrow.

American Express Announces Opening of Its 11th Centurion® Lounge at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
The New Centurion Lounge Offers Sophisticated Design With Nods to Charlotte's Southern Charm

American Express has announced that The Centurion Lounge at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) will open tomorrow, Monday, February 24th, 2020, marking the company’s 11th location within its iconic Centurion Lounge network.

As the seventh busiest airport in the world and with more than 46 million travellers passing through, Charlotte Douglas International Airport will host one of the largest Centurion Lounges to date spanning more than 13,000 square feet. The new Centurion Lounge location will welcome Platinum Card®, Centurion® and Delta Reserve Card Members and their guests to redefine their pre-flight experience with top of the line amenities and a premium dining menu curated by James Beard semifinalist and local Charlotte Chef, Joe Kindred. The new location will be located post-security on the top floor of the airport’s newly expanded area called “The Plaza,” situated between Concourses D and E.

New Delta Sky Club coming to Haneda in time for Tokyo games

Delta has begun construction this week on its new Delta Sky Club at the former TIAT Lounge Annex on the fifth floor of the International Terminal at Haneda International Airport.

The nearly 9,000 square foot Club is located close to gates where Delta flights will depart to seven of its U.S. gateways including Atlanta, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Portland, Seattle, and Honolulu, starting March 29 — making Delta the largest U.S. carrier serving Tokyo’s closest and most convenient airport. Delta will also be the only U.S. airline with a proprietary lounge at Haneda.

The newest Delta Sky Club will open early July, just in time for the Tokyo games.

The Haneda Delta Sky Club will feature:

International and Japanese seasonal food offerings that are rotated regularly, including a noodle bar
A full-service bar along with seasonal cocktails and wine selected by Delta's Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson     
Unique design elements and artwork throughout the Club reflecting local culture and history
High-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and power outlets at nearly every seat
Shower suites

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New lounge at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport from Airport Dimensions

                                          Airport Dimensions, the award-winning market leader in premium shared-use lounges and local New Orleans partner, JCM Management Group, today announced the opening of The Club MSY in the Louis Armstrong International Airport. This is Airport Dimensions’ 24th shared-use lounge globally that provides travellers a place to replenish or stay productive and connected before and between flights.

The Club MSY is designed to accommodate travellers’ individual needs by supplying them with a range of amenities and conveniences. Complementing the sleek and striking design of the new airport terminal and the natural light from the concourse below, The Club MSY features an environment that honours the vibrant culture of New Orleans in a sophisticated and understated manner. Throughout the lounge, unique decorative fixtures and furnishings give a sense of place of the region. Giving a nod to the rich history of jazz, the bar is designed in the shape of a saxophone, welcoming guests that wish to enjoy a premium wine, beer or signature cocktail.

British Airways names next lounges to be refurbished

Earlier this month the UK's British Airways announced it is refreshing its First and Club lounges at Chicago O’Hare Airport, as well as revealing more details on its lounge improvements at Edinburgh and Berlin, all part of the airline’s £6.5bn investment plan for customers.

Due to be completed in Spring 2020, customers travelling through Chicago in the First or Club lounges will receive a personal and more interactive welcome in new-look reception areas. The lounge will have a lighter and more relaxing atmosphere for customers with new décor, flooring and furnishings. There will be more charging ports, built into new marble tables, as well as specially crafted chairs to help customers to relax. In terms of dining, there will be redesigned serving stations which will continue to offer customers a wide range of local and international cuisines.

American Express opens two new lounges at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport - PHX

American Express and MAG USA have announced the opening of The Centurion Lounge and Escape Lounge at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). 

With Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport welcoming more than 44 million passengers each year, the two unique spaces will provide Platinum Card and Centurion Members with more options and premium amenities as they travel through Phoenix.

Located in Terminal 4 and spanning a combined total of over 9,500 square feet, the two side by side lounge locations will feature a shared entrance, separate reception areas, speciality cocktails, fresh locally-inspired cuisine, and more.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport gets two new American Express lounges......

American Express and MAG USA have announced the opening of The Centurion Lounge and Escape Lounge at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). 

With Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport welcoming more than 44 million passengers each year, the two unique spaces will provide Platinum Card and Centurion Members with more options and premium amenities as they travel through Phoenix.

Located in Terminal 4 and spanning a combined total of over 9,500 square feet, the two side by side lounge locations will feature a shared entrance, separate reception areas, speciality cocktails, fresh locally-inspired cuisine, and more.

Finnair reveals its flagship non-Schengen lounges

Finnair unveils the final phase of its non-Schengen lounge expansion with the opening of its new Business Class Lounge. The new Platinum Wing Lounge was opened in June of this year. Showcasing contemporary Nordic design throughout, the lounge offers a series of new spaces to explore and upgraded food and beverage options.  

“With more passengers flowing through Finnair’s home hub of Helsinki Airport, the new lounge complex increases seating capacity and space,” says Karim Al-Soufi, Vice President of Ground Experience at Finnair. “Together, the new combined lounge complex provides 200 additional seats over the lounges they replace.”  

“Throughout the design process, we spent a lot of time to really understand how our customers use our lounges and what their needs are. This, in turn, informed the design of the spaces and services,” says David Kondo, Finnair’s Head of Customer Experience Product Design. “The result is a lounge that offers a variety of different zones and seating styles, providing our customers with different options on how they want to spend their time.”