Airport Lounges: The New Profit Centers for Airlines
Recent insights reveal a significant shift in the airline industry. Many major airlines are now making most of their profits from their credit card partnerships. People often sign up for these credit cards mainly to gain access to various airport lounges.
A recent article in the New Yorker highlights this trend. It suggests that it’s not far-fetched to see airlines like Delta or United as lounge companies that also operate flights. This change is driving airlines to rapidly expand their lounge offerings.
Growing Numbers of Airport Lounges
More Lounges Around the World
Airlines are in a rush to build more lounges. For example, Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand, boasts thirty-seven lounges. Surprisingly, even Kasane Airport in Botswana, which has a population of about ten thousand, features its own lounge.
Luxurious Lounge Offerings
These airport lounges are becoming increasingly luxurious. Airlines are competing to offer better amenities. This includes fine dining, swimming pools, and even massages. For instance, United is creating a lounge in Houston that will be larger than a football field.
The Reality of Lounge Access
Crowded Lounges
Despite the growth in lounge numbers, many existing lounges are crowded. Some travelers even face standby lines to enter the more exclusive lounges. In many cases, travelers are using “lesser” lounges as waiting areas before they can get into their desired lounge.
Costs of Access
Accessing these lounges is not without its costs. If you get a credit card with a reasonable annual fee, you might only gain entry to a crowded lounge. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a luxurious experience—like a lounge with roast duck—it could set you back $795, not including extra charges for massages.
“There is no free lunch—even at airport lounges.”
The Quest for Exclusivity
Why People Choose Lounges
For many travelers, the experience is less about what’s offered in the lounge and more about exclusivity. The article notes that some people would rather sit on the floor than miss out on lounge access, possibly driven by social media envy or the feeling of inequality. This trend reflects a growing number of travelers who have premium expectations but may only be flying in economy class.
Finding Comfort Without the Price Tag
Alternative Travel Hacks
If you’re not keen on the crowded lounges or their high prices, there are alternatives. A practical travel hack is to find a quieter concourse in the airport. This way, you can enjoy some peace and quiet before your flight. Plus, you might discover a mostly-empty bar or restaurant that provides a more relaxed atmosphere.
The Challenge of Busy Airports
It’s worth noting that with the rise of overtourism, finding an empty airport concourse has become a challenge. Busy travel seasons make it increasingly hard to enjoy solitude in airport spaces.
