Qantas is advancing its global lounge refurbishment program, with major work set to begin at the Sydney International Business Lounge as the Auckland International Lounge opens ahead of the peak holiday season in December.
The upgrades represent a significant investment in the premium travel experience, with the Sydney International Business Lounge redevelopment set to increase seating capacity by over 30 per cent.
From 8 December, the Sydney International Business Lounge will enter its second phase of construction following the recent exterior extension works, with completion scheduled for 2027 ahead of the Flying Kangaroo's groundbreaking Project Sunrise ultra long-haul flights taking off to London and New York.
Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace said the upgrades to Qantas' award-winning lounge network would meet the increased demand from premium travellers while delivering for frequent flyers.
"As the demand for premium travel increases, we're creating more space, more dining options and a completely enhanced on ground experience in our new Sydney International Business Lounge and Auckland International Lounge.
"Our Trans-Tasman customers have told us how much they're looking forward to experiencing the new Auckland lounge and we're thrilled to deliver this stunning new space for them to enjoy in time for the holidays. We continue to see such strong demand for our direct flights through to New York and across the Tasman and this new lounge will transform the experience for our international customers pre-flight."
Sydney International Business Lounge
Designed by Caon Design Office and Akin Atelier, the reimagined lounge draws inspiration from Sydney's stunning natural landscape, including the Blue Mountains and Bondi.
For the first time and in a nod to preflight wellness ahead of ultra-long haul flying, the lounge will expand to offer a 150 square metre outdoor terrace, giving passengers the opportunity to enjoy fresh air and natural light before boarding.
The lounge will feature a show kitchen with signature plated menu options and dining experiences, alongside a hosted bar offering barista-made coffee and a curated drinks menu. Flexible zones will be tailored to different traveller needs, from shared spaces to quiet working zones, while enhanced connectivity will be available with USB-C power stations and wireless charging to over 80 per cent of seats.
During the construction of the new lounge, customers will be able to relax before their flight at a new temporary Qantas International Business Lounge at Terminal 1 or the Plaza Premium Lounge, ensuring uninterrupted service throughout the upgrade period.
Auckland International Lounge opening next month
The new Qantas Auckland International Lounge is set to open 17 December, in time for the busy Christmas travel period.
The completely redesigned and expanded lounge precinct at Auckland International Airport will set a new standard for customers travelling across the Tasman, as well as the popular direct Auckland-New York service.
Created in collaboration with Caon Design Office, Akin Atelier and Architectus' New Zealand studio, the lounge celebrates the natural beauty of New Zealand, with materials crafted and sourced in partnership with local suppliers.
The opening of the Auckland International Lounge come as Qantas continues to expand its trans-Tasman operations following the start of new seasonal services between Adelaide and Auckland alongside the launch of Auckland to Perth flights taking off on 7 December.
Beyond Sydney and Auckland, Qantas is continuing its global lounge investment program with further upgrades underway at the Los Angeles International Business Lounge and across the domestic regional lounge network.
Images can be found here.
