The World's Best Airline Lounges

An airline lounge is a dedicated private area in an airport that offers special amenities and comforts that go beyond those afforded in the main airport terminal. An airline lounge will provide travellers with a comfortable, quiet space to relax, work, or eat before boarding their flight. Lounges usually offer access to features such as more comfortable seating, shower facilities, Wi-Fi, telephones, magazines, complimentary food and drinks, says Thomas Hughes.

Entry into airline lounges is usually offered exclusively to first class and business class passengers, holders of premium credit cards, members of frequent flyer programs or anyone purchasing a day pass. The world’s first pioneering airline lounge was the American Airlines Admirals Club, which opened at New York’s LaGuardia Airport in 1939. It was conceived as a promotional tool for VIP customers by Cyrus Rowlett Smith, who was president of American Airlines at the time. The world of airport lounges has evolved significantly in recent years, with many airlines and third-party providers enhancing their offerings to cater to premium passengers, frequent fliers and those willing to pay for access.
 

Airline lounges provide a welcoming oasis away from the general airport hustle and bustle, enhancing the general travel experience, by creating a serene and convenient environment for travellers to pass the time before flights. If you are going to be waiting for a long time at the airport, you will have a far better experience at lounges when compared with the waiting areas. Lounge employees will wait on your every need, reducing travel stress, and play an important role in the overall satisfaction for visitors. For business travellers, the airport lounge serves as an effective temporary base where executives may begin important work- with fewer interruptions. For this purpose, companies may utilise airline lounges to optimise the productivity and well-being of travelling employees, which can be part of a broader strategy to support staff in sustaining high performance during business trips.
 

Major US airlines like American Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines operate dozens of lounges (Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club and United Club respectively), whereas smaller brands like Alaska Airlines will only operate a small number of lounges in their hub and focus cities. Passengers who possess a lounge membership in an airline in one of the three major airline alliances such as Star Alliance, Oneworld or SkyTeam, can also access the lounges of other members of that alliance. Whether you are looking for restaurant quality dining options, comfortable and private spaces to work, or a pampering session in your own spa-like bathroom, these lounges all bring something different to the table. Some of the best airline brands offering world class comfort in luxurious lounges today include:
 

AIR FRANCE LA PREMIERE LOUNGE PARIS CHARLES DE GAULLE

At Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport, you will be discreetly escorted to a private check-in lounge where every formality is taken care of on your behalf. The La Première lounge is a sanctuary of timeless elegance, featuring à la carte gourmet dining, a wine cellar, four luxurious shower suites, a dedicated spa for First Class passengers, and there are private suites available as an optional service that can accommodate up to four friends. In the Sisley space, you can enjoy a curated selection of treatments designed exclusively for Air France La Première guests and later sample the delightful menu crafted by Alain Ducasse. Expect unwavering attention from Air France staff and a bespoke service tailored to your every desire.
 

LUFTHANSA FIRST CLASS FRANKFURT

The travel experience with the flag carrier of Germany is second to none. You are able to skip the main terminal at Frankfurt Airport to instead drive up to the First Class Terminal. Security, immigration and check-in are handled within the lounge, which has an open plan design with excellent natural lighting. Travellers can unwind with a nice massage or facial in the First Class Spa, or kick back in the cigar lounge before heading on their journey. The bathroom and shower facilities are immaculate, with a variety of Balmain toiletries. There is a great restaurant with buffet and à la carte dining options, serving fresh pasta coated in cheese, fresh fruit, pastries and salads. A wide selection of gin beverages can be sampled, and a private chauffeur service is available.
 

JAPAN AIRLINES FIRST CLASS TOKYO

Travellers can look forward to embracing the perfect balance of modern Japanese design, and traditional Japanese spirit, in the Japan Airlines lounge at Tokyo International Airport. This elegant, refined space designed by highly renowned interior designer Ryu Kosaka, has floor-to-ceiling glass windows that provide a clear view of the runway. Mt Fuji can be seen on a clear day from the observation deck. Fresh, handmade sushi is meticulously prepared by professional chefs, along with exclusive dishes such as the JAL Special Original Beef Curry. The Red Suite is a peaceful sanctuary for work, privacy and relaxation. Located at the end of the lounge, it has a sophisticated aviation theme, with aircraft replicas, memorabilia, and is divided into four sections. Japan Airlines First Class Lounge offers a pleasant, relaxing experience with a wide selection of food and drinks.
 

EMIRATES BUSINESS CLASS DUBAI

The Emirates Business Class lounge in Dubai is one of the world’s largest and offers everything you need to stay productive on the go. There is a charging station for all your electrical devices and there are twelve shower suites in the lounge. Travellers can refresh with a massage, manicure or grooming session to recharge before their flight, unwind in the bespoke Moët and Chandon lounge to sample champagnes, as well as a selection of canapés crafted by Michelin-star chefs. From refreshing cocktails to gourmet cuisine, you may be spoilt for choice with the ample selection of Middle Eastern, Western, Asian and International cuisine options.
 

QATAR AIRWAYS AL MOURJAN BUSINESS LOUNGE DOHA

The business class Qsuites are not the only reason to fly on Qatar Airways. The Al Mourjan Business Lounge in Doha is regarded as one of the best in the world and is an exclusive sanctuary for Premium passengers at Hamad International Airport. Upon entry you will be greeted by a large steel sculpture. The lounge has a modern design incorporating natural light, flourishing greenery and stylish décor. It contains seven spa treatment rooms, a fitness studio (for anyone wanting to sneak in a quick workout on the go), twenty four quiet rooms and accommodates up to 707 passengers. The sheer size of this lounge can make the room feel empty- despite it being packed full of people! On the second floor, the main restaurant is accessible via a large wraparound staircase in the middle and this overlooks the length of the lounge, while providing views of the tarmac. Self-service beverage stations are also available in multiple locations. There is a family area and children’s playroom with semi-private pods, large sofas and a dedicated game room.
 

Airline lounges offer respite in what would otherwise be a chaotic environment. They are a critical resource for entrepreneurs, transforming dead time into productivity and this changes the entire travel experience. If you are flying business class, you will likely have access to a quality lounge that has been designed to positively impact your performance. With flights lasting more than six hours, savvy business travellers understand the importance of seeking ways to optimise work efficiency during travel. An increase in productivity can lead to significant growth in company revenue. When it comes to business travel, each lounge offers a group of amenities that cater to different tastes. Ultimately, each experience contributes to a greater understanding of what makes one airline lounge standout from among the rest.   EG