Airport Lounges closing

[lhbrown]

Hi everyone,

Another Amenity Vanishes as Carriers Shut Lounges. AIRPORT lounges are the latest casualty of the current crisis in the airline industry.

This Oasis Is ClosedMichael Nagle for The New York Times


Have a look at the full article on what is happening to airport lounges around the world at the following link:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/29/bu...l?ref=business

It is sad to see these lounges close which have truly been an oasis on long layovers.




Message Edited by lhbrown on 07-30-2008 09:14 AM

[kyshel]

wow--I think the most interesting article mention is an airline closing their lounge because they don't fly there any more? that's rich!! I think I'd close that one, too!

As long as they don't close the most fabulous one I've ever used--Incheon Airport, Korean Air Lines--better service, food and comfort than their in-flight business class. I'm sure there are more fine ones in the Asian countries where the bulk of international flights depart around midnight by a few hours each side of the clock. Many of those airports are like mega-malls with showers etc for the masses as well. It's a different world now...

[CMDAVILACLI]

The closing of airport lounges is just another dagger to my heart when it comes to flying. I have spent many an hour in these loungesbefore myoverseas flights and during the layovers.(yes, Kyshel, the Korean lounges are absolutely amazing!).My mantra "I hate to fly" is getting louder every day!

What will be interesting to see is what the airport chooses to put into the now vacant spaces... probably some overpriced, fried food stand or tacky "Made in ____(fill in the blank) shop!

cmdavilacli

[kyshel]

I hear you, CMDAVILACLI
I would venture to guess a vacant space would now house the umpteenth version of the same duty free shop that's down the concourse about 100 feet--except you have to go find it via escalators and corridors--they hide some of them rather well.
I am actually looking forward to using the last of my Skymiles so we can connect at ICN and use that lounge.
Just wait for the next evolution in air travel (if we live that long??!!) ACK!!

[omegaet]

CMDAVILACLI and kyshel....there has been a rumor or two circulatingthat Southwest may be taking over most of those closed lounge spaces....even in the destinations to which they offer no service.