AIRPORT HOSPITALITY WORLD ROUND-UP
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26 April
GERMANY. SkyTeam has opened its latest branded lounge at Frankfurt Airport, positioning the facility as its European flagship.
Located on the fourth-floor mezzanine in Terminal 3’s non-Schengen zone, the 550sq m lounge accommodates 126 guests and targets First, Business and SkyTeam Elite Plus travellers.
The design combines contemporary styling with nature-inspired elements, complemented by panoramic airfield views.
Facilities include shower suites, high-speed wifi, a soundproof phone booth, a relaxation zone and a dedicated VIP area, supporting both productivity and downtime.
Access is available to eligible passengers departing on international services operated by China Airlines, China Eastern, Delta Air Lines, Korean Air, Middle East Airlines, Saudia and Vietnam Airlines.
The lounge is operated in partnership with Global Lounge Network and opens three hours prior to the first SkyTeam departure, closing after the alliance’s final flight of the day.
USA. American Airlines is set to expand its lounge footprint at Nashville International Airport with plans for a new Admirals Club in Concourse A.
The 17,400sq ft facility will become the airport’s largest airline lounge, almost tripling the size of the current offering.
Designed to reflect Nashville’s cultural identity and Tennessee’s natural landscape, the space will feature airfield views alongside an indoor balcony overlooking the concourse.
A key differentiator will be outdoor terraces, introducing open-air viewing areas that align with the city’s social and hospitality-driven character.
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with the existing Admirals Club in Concourse C remaining operational throughout the build phase to ensure continuity of service.
25 April
GERMANY. Airport Lounge World has debuted as part of the Terminal 3 opening at Frankfurt Airport.
The 1,200sq m, two-level facility offers airfield views alongside a mix of workspaces, relaxation areas and a dedicated children’s zone, targeting both business and leisure travellers.
Access is available via paid entry or airline-issued invitations, reflecting the continued shift towards flexible lounge models.
The lounge launch coincides with Fraport Group officially opening Terminal 3, which began passenger operations this week (23 April) with a phased airline transition from Terminal 2.
24 April
HONG KONG, CHINA. Cathay Pacific has unveiled its redesigned flagship lounge, The Wing First Lounge, marking a significant evolution in its premium ground experience at Hong Kong International Airport.
The facility, located in Terminal 1 signals a new phase in the carrier’s global lounge strategy.
Developed in partnership with London-based StudioIlse, the reimagined space blends residential design cues with enhanced functionality, placing greater emphasis on privacy, comfort and service flow.
A central Atrium anchored by the airline’s signature green onyx bar (pictured below) forms the core of the lounge, complemented by flexible dining options spanning self-service and full à la carte formats.
The Dining Room features Asian and international cuisine, including dishes created with Mott 32, reinforcing Cathay Pacific’s focus on culinary differentiation.
Wellness is prioritised through the lounge’s Retreat area, offering private massage booths, alongside upgraded shower suites with customisable settings.
New additions include The Bureau, a fully enclosed workspace, and The Alcove, designed for semi-private relaxation or work.
22 April
CHINA. Global Lounge Network has opened a new facility at Beijing Daxing International Airport, marking a key step in its expansion into Asia.
The Lounge at PKX is located within the airport’s high-traffic international environment, with core amenities including comfortable seating, high-speed wifi, refreshments and charging points, alongside service designed to support both productivity and relaxation.
The opening brings Global Lounge Network’s footprint to more than 60 lounges across 11 countries.
21 April
USA. Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has opened two lounges at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, marking the US debut of its Plaza Premium First concept.
Located in Terminal D, the new Plaza Premium First and Plaza Premium Lounge target distinct passenger segments.
Both facilities incorporate design and culinary elements inspired by the Dallas-Fort Worth region while maintaining the company’s international service standards.
Read the full story here.
19 April
COLOMBIA. Colombian flag carrier Avianca has unveiled a new premium facility at El Dorado International Airport as it accelerates its customer experience transformation.
The Diamond International VIP Lounge, located near Gate 32 in Terminal 1, spans 7,535sq ft and is positioned to serve more than 150,000 LifeMiles Diamond members by the end of this year.
Access is restricted to elite-tier members and premium passengers travelling with Avianca and its Star Alliance partners.
The lounge concept blends Colombian cultural cues with functional design, incorporating local elements such as orchids alongside quiet zones, workstations and soundproof booths supported by high-speed connectivity.
A full-service bar anchors the offer, complemented by runway views, while the food proposition combines international cuisine with Colombian specialities, led by a strong coffee focus.
CHILE. Global Lounge Network has expanded its Latin American footprint with the opening of the Harmony Club at Chacalluta International Airport.
Located airside on the second level of the main terminal, the 107sq m lounge accommodates up to 30 guests and is positioned as a premium pre-flight retreat for both domestic and international travellers using the Arica gateway to the Atacama region.
The design emphasises a calm, contemporary aesthetic, enhanced by natural light and supported by two private areas tailored for business travellers seeking discretion.
High-speed wifi and dedicated workspaces underline the productivity focus.
A central bar forms the core of the hospitality offer, serving a range of complimentary beverages alongside premium alcohol options, while a buffet selection spans hot and cold dishes with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices.
SOUTH KOREA. Korean Air has completed a 42-month, KRW110 billion (US$75 million) overhaul of its lounge infrastructure at Incheon International Airport Terminal 2, culminating in the opening of its flagship First Class and Prestige Class West Lounges on 17 and 16 April, respectively.
The investment more than doubles total lounge capacity, positioning the carrier for traffic growth and its planned integration with Asiana Airlines.
The 921sq m First Class Lounge has been expanded to more than two times its former size, with a privacy-led concept featuring 11 suites alongside a central hall. Interiors draw on traditional Korean architecture.
The experience is anchored by à la carte dining with premium tableware, curated artworks including pieces by Anish Kapoor, and dedicated wellness facilities.
The 2,615sq m Prestige Class West Lounge, now the largest at the airport with over 420 seats, delivers a high-capacity premium offer.
Highlights include live cooking stations, a full-service bar, digital art installations and business-focused tech zones.
AUSTRALIA. Two rare hotel developments are on the drawing board for Brisbane Airport, with experienced hotel operators invited to submit proposals for hotel management agreement opportunities.
The dual opportunities will meet rising demand from business, leisure and event-driven travel ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane.
Read the full story here.
17 April
ETHIOPIA. Ethiopian Airlines has unveiled its new CIP Lounge at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
In a LinkedIn post, the airport company described it as “a sophisticated space to unwind with premium amenities before boarding, enhancing the overall airport experience for business and leisure travellers alike”.
Images of the lounge appear below.
ISRAEL. EL Al Israel Airlines has unveiled its upgraded Top Platinum Lounge at Ben Gurion Airport Terminal 3, introducing a digitally driven premium hospitality concept.
The refurbishment combines refined architectural design with an integrated technology ecosystem aimed at enhancing the end-to-end passenger experience for top-tier travellers.
Central to the upgrade is a fully synchronised audio system, with background music seamlessly aligned to the airport’s public address infrastructure.
Digital signage has been deployed throughout the lounge to deliver dynamic, targeted content while reinforcing the premium environment.
A high-quality video distribution network supports consistent visual output across both social and quiet zones.
In parallel, interactive kiosks have been introduced to streamline passenger touchpoints, offering intuitive access to key services.
16 April
USA. Plaza Premium Group has officially opened both the Plaza Premium First and Plaza Premium Lounge at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Terminal D.
The launch marks the debut of the Plaza Premium First concept in the USA and its eighth globally, underlining the group’s ambition to scale its premium, experience-led lounge portfolio in key hub airports.
The dual opening builds on Plaza Premium Group’s existing footprint at DFW, including its Terminal E lounge and ALLWAYS Airport Concierge offer, and aligns with the airport’s role as a major international gateway.
Plaza Premium First delivers a high-touch, privacy-led experience with à la carte dining, curated beverages and personalised service, while the adjacent Plaza Premium Lounge focuses on accessible premium comfort.
Both spaces incorporate works from local Dallas/Fort Worth artists, reinforcing a sense of place and community engagement.
15 April
SINGAPORE. Changi Airport Group (CAG) has launched an ambitious redevelopment programme of the former Commercially Important Persons (CIP) terminal, integrating premium lifestyle and dining concepts in partnership with Plaza Premium Group.
Highlights of the private terminal will include a deluxe lounge, bar, private suites and bespoke dining, alongside a premium event space designed for larger entourages and private gatherings.
Full story here.
13 April
ITALY. Swissport’s Aspire division has officially launched Catullo Lounge by Aspire at Verona Airport, in partnership with airport operator SAVE.
This marks Aspire’s second location in Italy, following an opening last year at Venice Marco Polo Airport.
Images of the lounge appear below.
TANZANIA. Omani company Transom has launched operations in the United Republic of Tanzania, marking a key step in its global expansion strategy.
It will be introducing a fully integrated aviation services model which will include premium passenger lounges.
We spoke to Transom about its airport lounges vision for Tanzania. Read the story here.
7 April
IRELAND. Dublin Airport has unveiled the new Phoenix Lounge in Terminal 1.
It offers panoramic views of the airfield, with an extensive dining space including and hot and cold buffet selections.
There is also a fully serviced bar with Guinness on tap, other popular beers and premium cocktails, plus spirits & wine.
Images of the lounge appear below.
CAMBODIA. A new benchmark for automotive brand engagement in travel retail has been set at Techo International Airport with the opening of the Lexus Display Lounge, a concept that could redefine how premium brands across multiple categories activate within airports worldwide.
The installation in the main airside atrium at Cambodia’s newest airport, located 19km south of Phnom Penh, has been delivered through a Lexus Cambodia, Cambodia Airport Investment Co. and International Airport Advertising Cambodia collaboration.
Read our exclusive story here.
4 April
CHINA. American Express has opened its first airport lounge in Mainland China. The facility at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport represents a milestone in the company’s network expansion.
The 146sq m lounge in Terminal 2’s pre-security area will welcome eligible domestic and international card members from later in April.
Full story and more images here.
3 April
CANADA. Plaza Premium Group has appointed Eric Pateman as Senior Vice President, North America, reinforcing the company’s leadership structure across Canada, the USA, Mexico and the Caribbean.
Full story here.
2 April
USA. American Express has outlined further expansion of its Centurion Lounge network, targeting new capacity and format innovation across key US hubs.
A new two-level Centurion Lounge is planned for Boston Logan International Airport (artist’s impression below), with opening scheduled for 2029. Positioned in Terminal C, the facility will rank among the network’s largest and include an outdoor terrace, marking a first for the airport.
The design will reflect Boston’s cultural and coastal identity while maintaining the brand’s established premium offer.
In Charlotte Douglas International Airport, American Express will introduce its second ‘Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge’ concept in 2027 (artist’s impression below), following the debut at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.
The compact format targets time-pressed travellers, with QR-based ordering and rapid delivery of food & beverage. Access will be limited to a 90-minute pre-departure window.
The space will also incorporate a Blue Roast coffee bar and core lounge amenities.
At Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, the existing Centurion Lounge will undergo a major expansion (artist’s impression below), increasing capacity by nearly +50% ahead of a 2027 reopening.
Planned enhancements include additional seating, a new dining zone, a second full-service bar and a walk-up ice cream counter.
UK. CAVU will open a premium lounge concept, The Executive by Escape Lounges, at Manchester Airport Terminal 2 on 1 July.
The 300-seat facility will introduce a higher-tier offer within the Escape Lounges brand, combining buffet and seated dining formats alongside an upgraded drinks proposition.
The dual dining approach is designed to extend dwell time and capture greater spend from passengers seeking a more considered pre-flight experience.
The lounge will incorporate locally inspired design elements aligned with Manchester’s identity.
BRAZIL. Global Lounge Network (GLN) has strengthened its presence in Brazil with the opening of a new Flybondi Lounge at Rio de Janeiro/Galeão International Airport Terminal 2.
Developed in collaboration with the low-cost Argentine airline, the facility marks GLN’s 17th lounge in the Brazilian market.
The 600sq m lounge accommodates up to 135 guests and operates 24/7, targeting both business and leisure segments with a full-service, premium environment.
Facilities include a business centre, buffet dining, bar service, hot food and dedicated relaxation and family zones, reflecting a broad-based approach to passenger needs across dwell times.
TANZANIA. Miracle Air is preparing to launch the Uhuru Terminal VIP Lounge at Kilimanjaro International Airport, introducing a fully integrated private terminal-style experience targeting high-yield travellers and government traffic.
The Uhuru Lounge will operate as a hybrid model, offering complimentary access for Miracle Air passengers alongside paid entry for other travellers, subject to availability.
The concept centres on end-to-end processing within the lounge environment, bypassing the main terminal.
Key features include personalised meet-and-greet, fast-track baggage handling, in-lounge check-in and boarding pass issuance, as well as dedicated immigration and health clearance facilities.
Guests are escorted directly to the aircraft, reinforcing a seamless, queue-free journey.
The space combines premium lounge amenities with retail, including boutique shopping focused on local and luxury brands, alongside complimentary food & beverage.
Interiors are positioned as refined and private, with dedicated zones designed to support both relaxation and discretion.
1 April
THAILAND. The partnership between SSP Group and Travel Food Services has launched Travel Club Lounge at Don Mueang International Airport, marking the brand’s first location in Thailand. It represents SSP’s first lounge venture in Thailand.
Located on levels 2 and 3, International Airside, Terminal 1, the 477sq m lounge features 95 seats.
Full story and an image gallery here.
BULGARIA. TAV Operation Services (OS) has introduced its next-generation Primeclass lounge at Vasil Levski Sofia Airport, marking the first physical roll-out of a new lifestyle-led hospitality concept in travel retail.
The opening positions Sofia as the launch platform for a broader transformation across the Primeclass global network, as TAV OS shifts the brand from functional lounge environments towards experience-driven spaces designed around traveller wellbeing, flexibility and emotional engagement.
Full story and an image gallery here.
USA. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport has expanded its lounge capacity with the opening of a significantly enlarged Escape Lounge in Concourse B, in partnership with CAVU.
The new facility, located near gate B12, spans 6,767sq ft, representing an almost fivefold increase on the original lounge introduced in 2019.
The US$6.3 million development reflects sustained passenger growth and rising demand for premium pre-flight spaces, according to the airport.
The upgraded lounge introduces a more segmented layout, with four distinct themed zones and increased seating capacity designed to accommodate higher throughput while maintaining dwell quality.
Food & beverage has been enhanced, with a stronger emphasis on locally sourced products and regional brands, aligning with broader industry trends around localisation.
Design elements draw on Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, incorporating works from regional artists and references to the surrounding area.
INDIA. American Express has opened a Centurion Lounge at Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 1, extending its Global Centurion Lounge Collection in a key growth market.
The facility targets both domestic and international eligible Card Members, reinforcing the issuer’s focus on premium travel touchpoints in high-traffic hubs.
The lounge combines core brand hallmarks with locally driven design, featuring commissioned artworks that highlight Indian craftsmanship, including installations inspired by traditional batik techniques alongside contributions from regional artists.
The space is configured to balance productivity and relaxation, with dedicated workstations, quiet zones and rest areas integrated into a premium, design-led environment.
Food & beverage is positioned as a central pillar, with a curated menu spanning breakfast and lunch, live cooking stations and grab-and-go options.
A full-service bar offers a premium spirits & wine selection, complemented by artisanal coffee.
Additional amenities include private restrooms, changing and nursing facilities, and a dedicated ‘Centurion-only’ area, further tiering the offer for high-value customers.
AUSTRALIA. Daydream Island Resort has partnered with Whitsunday Coast Airport to introduce a dedicated arrival lounge, targeting seamless end-to-end journeys for inbound leisure travellers.
Exclusive to resort guests, the facility is positioned as an extension of the premium hospitality experience, bridging the transition from air travel to island transfer.
It serves passengers arriving from key domestic gateways, including Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.
VIETNAM. Sun PhuQuoc Airways has expanded its premium ground offering with the opening of the Sun Executive Lounge at Phu Quoc International Airport, following the earlier roll-out at Noi Bai International Airport, covered in this column.
The lounge has been designed by Bill Bensley, marking his first airport lounge project.
The concept draws on 1920s aviation academies, featuring a mezzanine layout, vaulted ceilings and aviation-inspired design elements to create a highly themed environment.
Food & beverage is positioned as a central differentiator, with a focus on authentic Vietnamese cuisine curated by Ánh Tuyết, complemented by international brands including Eric Kayser, Delingoo and TWG Tea. ✈
Read the June 2025 Airport Hospitality World column here.
Read the July 2025 Airport Hospitality World column here.
Read the August 2025 Airport Hospitality World column here.
Read the September 2025 Airport Hospitality World column here.
Read the October 2025 Airport Hospitality World column here.
Read the November 2025 Airport Hospitality World column here.
Read the December 2025 Airport Hospitality World column here.
Read the January 2026 Airport Hospitality World column here.
Read the February 2026 Airport Hospitality World column here.
Read the March 2026 Airport Hospitality World column here.
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 The Moodie Davitt Report is delighted to announce Airport Hospitality World, the latest edition to its wide-ranging, market-leading travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenues publishing and event portfolio. Airport Hospitality World covers all forms of airport lounges across international and domestic terminals, including various definitions as follows:
Plus other hospitality-related platforms:
Excitingly, the long-established Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards will embrace Airport Hospitality World from the 2026 edition – the event’s 15th anniversary. The event will take on an extended form, featuring an exhibition and the ultimate one-stop airport hospitality and food & beverage conference and awards platform. |
