I’m an airline product geek, and I like to keep an updated list of some of the best products out there, ranging from the best first class airlines, to the best business class airlines, to the best business class lounges, to the best business class seats. In this post, I’d like to share my updated ranking of the world’s best first class lounges, to reflect the changes we’ve seen over time.
First, I wanted to talk briefly about my method for ranking first class airline lounges, and then I’ll get into my rankings, with an explanation of each.
In this post:
Why you should trust OMAAT lounge reviews
Hopefully I don’t have to explain this to regular OMAAT readers, but I feel like this is worth mentioning for those who aren’t regular readers…
All the time I see media outlets ranking first class lounges, though they’re almost always just going off stock media images and how airlines describe their lounges, rather than actual firsthand experience.
Why should you trust OMAAT lounge reviews?
- I pay for virtually all of my own flights, either with cash or miles
- I’ve visited nearly every first class lounge in the world, most several times, so have lots of context for what makes a great lounge
- I don’t have any sort of financial relationship with any airline
- This is my passion, I’ve been reviewing airlines for over 17 years, I’ve written hundreds of airport lounge reviews, and have logged millions of miles
There aren’t many sites that can say all of the above, and in the case of some other rating agencies (like Skytrax), I certainly wish we’d see a bit more transparency regarding the financial relationship they have with the airlines they rank.
My method for ranking first class lounges
Let me emphasize that my rankings are entirely subjective, and that’s by design. One of the challenges with reviewing airline lounges is that everyone is looking for different things.
Some airline lounges have bedrooms that are almost like hotel rooms. That’s valuable if you have a long layover, but worthless if you have a short layover. Meanwhile other lounges have top notch food, but that’s of limited use if you’re between long haul flights and aren’t hungry. Other lounges can save you time getting through security and to the plane, but it depends on the circumstances.
I’m going to try and balance the above amenities, though you can shift around which lounge is best based on what you value the most. I’m not saying anyone’s rankings should be in the same order as mine, though I think most people can at least agree with my general list of the top lounges.
Let me also note that I’m only putting one lounge from each airline on the list, even if that carrier has multiple great lounges.
The world’s 10 best first class airline lounges
With the above out of the way, below are what I consider to be the 10 best first class airport lounges, starting with the best (and you can click each headline to read a review of that lounge).
1. Air France La Premiere First Class Lounge Paris (CDG)
The Air France La Premiere First Class Lounge Paris is the best first class ground experience in the world, in my opinion. Air France’s first class really is the whole package, because the inflight experience is spectacular as well.
If you’re originating in Paris, you can enter the terminal through a special entrance, check-in formalities will be taken care of, and then you’ll be driven to the first class lounge. Similarly, if you’re connecting in Paris, you’ll be picked up at your plane and driven to the first class lounge, and then later on will be driven from the first class lounge to your connecting flight.
There’s so much to love about the Air France first class lounge, though my favorite thing is probably the restaurant, which has an Alain Ducasse menu. In my experience it’s the best food offered in any airline lounge in the world. It’s not just that the food quality is excellent, but the service and presentation are equally good.
There’s even a Sisley spa, where passengers can enjoy a complimentary 30-minute spa treatment, subject to availability. There’s even an arrivals lounge, so if you’re ending in Paris, you can enjoy a meal in the lounge while the Air France representatives collect your checked bags, and take care of your ground transportation needs. If you’re willing to pay extra, the Air France La Premiere Lounge even has private suites, which are the most luxurious suites you’ll find in any airport.
There’s not a first class ground experience in the world that’s as seamless and has as much attention to detail. It doesn’t matter whether you’re originating in Paris or connecting, Air France has thought of all the details.
How to access this lounge: You must be flying Air France La Premiere first class same day, or select business class passengers can buy access to the lounge at a steep cost.
2. Lufthansa First Class Terminal Frankfurt (FRA)
Rather than just offering a great first class lounge, Lufthansa has taken it to the next level with its First Class Terminal. This allows you to skip the main terminal at Frankfurt Airport altogether, and instead drive right up to the First Class Terminal, and then be driven to your plane when your flight is ready to board. All formalities, including check-in, security, and immigration, are handled in the lounge.
The lounge itself is nice, with attentive service, a great restaurant with a buffet and a la carte dining, a cigar bar, nap rooms, and collectible rubber duckies.
As an aviation geek my favorite part is being driven across the apron to the plane. This is one of the few situations where I hope my plane is parked as far from the terminal as possible. 😉
Why doesn’t Lufthansa get the number one spot? Because the experience is inconsistent. It’s fantastic if you’re originating in Frankfurt, but if you’re just in transit, the experience isn’t nearly as seamless.
The only time you’ll be picked up from your flight by car is if you’re arriving at a remote stand. Otherwise you’ll potentially have to walk thousands of steps and navigate your own way through the maze which is Frankfurt Airport. The horror. 😉
For what it’s worth, I don’t think the lounge as such is that exciting, but the point is that it makes the travel experience truly seamless. At the end of the day, for many travelers, that level of convenience is the single best feature a lounge can offer. If connecting, I actually prefer the Lufthansa First Class Lounge Munich, as it has more amenities, and I find it to be more enjoyable to hang out in.
How to access this lounge: You must be flying Lufthansa first class or SWISS first class same day, or Miles & More HON Circle members can use the lounge when flying a Lufthansa Group airline same day, regardless of the class of service.
3. SWISS First Class Lounge Zurich (ZRH)
The SWISS First Class Lounge Zurich is spectacular, and features a gorgeous design.
In addition to service throughout the lounge, the SWISS First Lounge has an excellent restaurant, and after the Air France La Premiere Lounge, I’d say it’s probably my favorite restaurant in an airport lounge.
But there are two other features that make this lounge exceptional. The first is that the lounge has private bedrooms for those with long layovers. The beds are as comfortable as the ones you’d find in top hotels, not to mention the bedroom has a view of the apron and runways, which made me not want to sleep.
Furthermore, the lounge has a large terrace with views of the gates. In summer they’ll even have ice cream out there for guests to enjoy.
Note that there are two SWISS First Lounges at Zurich Airport. The SWISS First Lounge in the Schengen area of the terminal is great as well.
How to access this lounge: You must be flying Lufthansa or SWISS first class same day, or Miles & More HON Circle members can use the lounge when flying a Lufthansa Group airline same day, regardless of the class of service.
4. Cathay Pacific The Pier First Class Lounge Hong Kong (HKG)
In terms of design, Cathay Pacific’s The Pier First Class Lounge in Hong Kong is one of my favorite lounges in the world. The lounge is designed in a way that makes you feel like you’re in a really swanky hotel or even home, rather than at an airport.
The Pier also has a good restaurant with a la carte dining.
On top of that, the lounge has private rooms where you can relax, or just watch planes pass by outside.
Guests also receive a complimentary 15-minute spa treatment, with the choice of foot reflexology, a head massage, a neck and shoulder massage, or an eye revitalizer.
While Cathay Pacific’s The Wing First Class Lounge is also excellent (it’s temporarily closed for renovations), The Pier is definitely my preferred of the two great first class lounges at the airport.
How to access this lounge: You must be flying oneworld first class same day, or oneworld Emerald members can use the lounge in conjunction with a same day oneworld ticket, regardless of destination or class.
5. Qantas First Lounge Sydney (SYD)
The Qantas First Lounge Sydney nails all the basics. The lounge is physically stunning and spacious, with lots of natural light and panoramic views.
I love the food in Qantas first class lounges. The menu is designed by Neil Perry of Rockpool Bar & Grill, and my favorite is the salt & pepper squid (though nothing on the menu will disappoint).
On top of that, passengers receive a complimentary 20-minute spa treatment, with several choices, including a facial, a foot massage, a hot stone back massage, and a neck, shoulder, and scalp massage.
How to access this lounge: You must be flying oneworld first class same day, or oneworld Emerald members can use the lounge in conjunction with a same day oneworld ticket.
6. Singapore Airlines The Private Room Singapore (SIN)
Singapore Airlines’ The Private Room is the carrier’s most exclusive lounge, as it’s more exclusive than the Singapore Airlines First Class Lounge. The Private Room feels incredibly intimate and elegant. The lounge has a bunch of semi-private seating, so it’s easy to get comfortable.
The lounge also has a large dining area with restaurant quality food and service, plus an excellent selection of drinks, including champagne comparable to what you’ll find onboard. It’s easy to have a great meal in The Private Room.
The lounge also has a couple of other unique features, like private nap rooms, which are much appreciated if you’re looking to get some rest. However, there are some quirks to these nap rooms that you should be aware of.
Unfortunately Singapore Airlines’ ground service otherwise leaves a bit to be desired, as there’s nothing more to it. Given that security is at each individual gate, it sure would be nice if Singapore Airlines escorted first class passengers to the gate and allowed them to jump the queue, as you’ll find with some other top first class ground experiences.
How to access this lounge: You must be flying Singapore Airlines Suites or Singapore Airlines first class same day.
7. Qatar Airways Al Safwa First Class Lounge Doha (DOH)
The Qatar Airways Al Safwa Lounge feels sort of like a museum, and you might forget that you’re at an airport. The ceilings are probably 40 feet tall, and there’s so much space. Not everyone will love the minimalist and industrial design, but personally I do.
The lounge also has a restaurant with solid food, though not quite to the level you’d find in the Air France or SWISS lounges. One other feature I love about the lounge is that it offers private bedrooms for passengers with long layovers, and I’d say these are the second best airport bedrooms after those in the SWISS lounge.
The lounge also has a spa including a jacuzzi. While use of the jacuzzi is free, spa treatments come at an extra cost.
How to access this lounge: You must be flying Qatar Airways first class same day (regional first class flights are eligible), or be a Qatar Airways Privilege Club Platinum member traveling in business class. It’s also possible to buy access to the lounge for 600QAR (~165USD) per person when flying Qatar Airways business class.
8. Emirates First Class Lounge Dubai (DXB)
Th Emirates First Class Lounge Dubai is more of a concourse than a lounge. That’s because the lounge literally spans the entire length of the terminal. On one hand that’s super impressive. You have a lounge that’s tens of thousands of square feet, and at times there will only be a few guests.
The lounge also has a restaurant with a la carte dining, a cigar bar, a spa with complimentary 15-minute treatments, and more. One other awesome feature is that you can board your flight directly through the lounge, assuming your flight departs from the “A” Concourse.
The problem? The lounge is so big that it actually feels incredibly sterile and unwelcoming. You feel like you’re sitting in a terminal rather than in a top first class lounge. The lounge doesn’t have an intimate and residential-feeling design, like you’d find in Cathay Pacific’s lounge, for example. Also, the design of the lounge perhaps isn’t the most cutting edge or modern, to put it politely.
This is probably the first time in history that a lounge being too big has been a complaint.
How to access this lounge: You must be flying Emirates first class same day, or be an Emirates Skywards Platinum member. Furthermore, you can buy access to this lounge, at the cost of $250 if traveling in economy or at the cost of $150 if traveling in business class.
9. Etihad First Class Lounge Abu Dhabi (AUH)
The Etihad Airways First Class Lounge is a beautiful facility, with stunning design, and different kinds of seating options.
The lounge also has proper a la carte dining, with very good quality food and drinks. This is one of the better dining experiences that you’ll find in any first class lounge.
Another nice feature is that you can board select flights directly from the adjacent business class section of the lounge, so you don’t even have to go to the gate, which is great. For that matter, it can be fun to wander over to the new Etihad Business Class Lounge if you’re looking for a change of scenery, as there are lots of other amenities there as well.
The lounge complex also has a spa, where first class passengers can enjoy a complimentary 15-minute spa treatment.
The only real downside to this lounge is that it lacks other amenities. It doesn’t have nap rooms, a bar, a gym, or even a smoking room. Still, it’s a very nice lounge for passing some time.
How to access this lounge: You must be flying Etihad first class same day, or be an Etihad Guest Platinum member traveling same day on Etihad. Furthermore, it’s possible to buy access to this lounge if you’re traveling in Etihad business class, at the cost of $215.
10. Japan Airlines First Class Lounge Tokyo (HND)
The Japan Airlines First Class Lounge can get pretty crowded, so it’s not quite as exclusive as some of the above lounges. That being said, I still really enjoy this lounge, and tend to think that there’s a secret to maximizing the experience.
For one, the lounge has really cool design in some areas, including a library area with some cool aviation geek memorabilia.
The lounge also has excellent food and drinks, including a sushi counter and an upper floor bar with some phenomenal cocktails. The thing to be aware of is that those two facilities are only open over the busiest hours, and they’re truly by far the best parts of the lounge. When you enter the lounge, just turn left, and that will bring you to these areas.
How to access this lounge: You must be flying oneworld first class same day, or oneworld Emerald members can use the lounge in conjunction with a same day oneworld ticket.
Bottom line
Most people dread having time to kill time at the airport, though the above lounges make spending time at an airport a pleasure. From enjoying a restaurant quality meal, to being driven to your plane in a luxury car, to getting a private bedroom that makes you feel like you’re in a hotel, to enjoying a pampering spa treatment, these lounges have it all.
I’d like to emphasize that I think anyone would be reasonable to think that the above lounges should be in a different order, but hopefully this is at least a useful list in terms of the 10 all-around best first class airline lounges.
I’m curious to hear what OMAAT readers make of my rankings! Are there any other lounges that should have been on the list?
I tested all three first, and my ranking is the same as yours, with a clear preference for the "La Première" experience—an exceptional travel memory.
A complete and unforgettable experience. They pick you up from your home or hotel and take care of everything from the moment you arrive at gate E17 at CDG. During check-in, you can enjoy a drink. Then, you're transferred to the main lounge in a Porsche Cayenne where you can...
I tested all three first, and my ranking is the same as yours, with a clear preference for the "La Première" experience—an exceptional travel memory.
A complete and unforgettable experience. They pick you up from your home or hotel and take care of everything from the moment you arrive at gate E17 at CDG. During check-in, you can enjoy a drink. Then, you're transferred to the main lounge in a Porsche Cayenne where you can enjoy everything Ben mentioned.
At boarding time, the same person accompanies you to the plane in the same vehicle, and you won't see any other passengers besides La Première during your entire time at the airport.
After the flight, the same service is provided by Air France staff. Other airlines offer similar services in certain areas, but never such a comprehensive end-to-end experience.
For me, the Emirates DXB lounge doesn't suffer because of its size, but rather because of its offerings. I found food to be meh, and the decor clunky and staid.
Lucky, someone mentioned comparison to historical rankings. Do you have your records on that, maybe just as a spreadsheet showing category rankings per lounge as they change over time. Have you seen those videos that animate rankings as they change overtime?
Would be interesting and provide data for flyers and lounge operators alike, especially coming from a source like you. Cheers!
What, no love for the Air India JFK lounge?
/s
Couldn't agree more about Singapore. The fact that (aside from the lounge itself) I received better ground service at SYD on departure than I did at SIN on departure really says a lot about the deficiency that exists in their First Class ground services.
When I fly into FRA from MLA, enroute EZE, I actually prefer walking from the A gates in term 1 to the FC lounge. About a ten to fifteen minutes walk. Very enjoyable. After all, won't be walking much for the 13 hour flight.
Ben this is the real deal rankings. No need to say “trust me.” Just because an article in CNBC or WSJ surfaces we know how inaccurate they are.
I’ve been to 2 , 5, 7 , 8 , and 10 (a few times ).
Enjoying a cigar for 70 minutes at Lufthansa FCT lounge and Emirates First in Dubai were amazing before departing for a luxurious first class flight.
Having dining service...
Ben this is the real deal rankings. No need to say “trust me.” Just because an article in CNBC or WSJ surfaces we know how inaccurate they are.
I’ve been to 2 , 5, 7 , 8 , and 10 (a few times ).
Enjoying a cigar for 70 minutes at Lufthansa FCT lounge and Emirates First in Dubai were amazing before departing for a luxurious first class flight.
Having dining service breakfast at the Qantas Lounge with stunning views of the tarmac with the Sydney skyline was breathtaking.
The JAL Sakura at HND with copious amounts of sushi and well polished atmosphere.
Al Safwa I was too jet lagged connecting through but Q Suites was the best flight I’ve ever experienced. Better than LH F and Emirates F.
Exceptional experiences.
For someone with the name SWI33, I assume you'd tried the LX lounges.
For someone with the name fake Eskimo, I assume you'd tried the Fake Eskimo lounges.
See fake Eskimo. Now you're beginning to learn something on being me. It took you awhile and A LOT of hint to get it. But every empire begins with a first step, so let's see how far can you go.
Keep it up, still need to prove yourself that your not really that stupid.
Maybe one day I'll retire.
There is a little 'sleeper' in the lounge rankings, it's not huge or grandiose, has restricted opening times (no breakfast), but...has great food, beverages and is batting much higher than expected, so try the Finnair Platinum Lounge (non-Schengen) and while there sample the Kygo G&T.
Because the topic is First Class lounge?
I very rarely travel in first class, however I definitely do have extensive experience of business class lounges (whether as a ticketed passenger or status holder).
If the FCT that I visited a few months ago with its vile ALRIGHTY* coffee (compared to Lavazza for J/SEN), crappy Balmain toiletries (instead of L'Occitane) and 'healthy' nut paste full of sugar and cheap 'cocoa' (more like lecithin)- and no labels indicating their presence- is the world's...
I very rarely travel in first class, however I definitely do have extensive experience of business class lounges (whether as a ticketed passenger or status holder).
If the FCT that I visited a few months ago with its vile ALRIGHTY* coffee (compared to Lavazza for J/SEN), crappy Balmain toiletries (instead of L'Occitane) and 'healthy' nut paste full of sugar and cheap 'cocoa' (more like lecithin)- and no labels indicating their presence- is the world's second best F lounge, I have zero interest in bothering with the rest of them.
* That's the actual name of the roastery and definitely not my opinion of the quality of their products.
I think FCT went downhill from a decade ago. It's still solid and deserves to be up there due to it's multiple amenities and exclusivity.
By the way crappy Balmain?
That's probably why you don't belong in First.
Don't bother the rest of us, win-win.
Because they were white label rubbish complete with a 'made in China' sticker on the bottle. L'Occitane is on an entirely different level.
And you think your favorite brand isn't white labeled?
L'Occitane isn't white label, and I certainly don't have a favourite brand of soap, toothpaste etc. The shower gel at Aldi feels higher quality than what they gave me at the FCT.
You really don't belong.
I relish not belonging!
You have accepted complimentary La Premiere flights from Air France including lounge access. Then you rank them #1. Your credibility of reviewing Air France products is compromised.
Not really, given that it’s considered the best by almost every reviewer.
He was rating them #1 even before those flights, and the lounge is objectively the best one out there, so not exactly the erosion of credibility that you present it as.
Ben's credibility has been established and reinforced through years of solid, reliable reviews and opinions. Receiving a perk only compromises a person who doesn't have integrity. Also, the AF lounge really is that special. I elongated my stopover to get two meals. Just wonderful.
Ben, how about adding a top 10 premium economy airlines review or more reviews of PE? Sorry for asking you to suffer in PE a little bit. Thanks.
@Dave
No offense. PE is fools gold. As soon as I bring Premium Economy up to an FA who clearly wants to be left alone turns their head and immediately engages in conversation about how demanding passengers are in PE. What’s the problem ? You can afford a business class upgrade ? Doug Parker was a genius for monetizing PE on American. He must have thrown seats out the door of planes to make room in his sleep.
Agree.
PE is the worst that a customer can buy. Hence it's every airline's most profitable cabin.
Customer thinks they're premium, and pays premium for it.
But airline treats you like economy and put a lipstick on it.
This posts suggests you’re quite out of touch with F lounges in the last couple of years Ben. A lot has changed and I don’t think desktop reviews really cut it when you’re making a big song and dance about why your opinion matters more than others…
I can assure you Al Safwa no longer ranks in the top 10 (repulsive microwaved food, extremely cheap wine, chaotic and disorganised staff, long waits for showers). EK’s...
This posts suggests you’re quite out of touch with F lounges in the last couple of years Ben. A lot has changed and I don’t think desktop reviews really cut it when you’re making a big song and dance about why your opinion matters more than others…
I can assure you Al Safwa no longer ranks in the top 10 (repulsive microwaved food, extremely cheap wine, chaotic and disorganised staff, long waits for showers). EK’s F lounge - despite being too busy and soulless - still has much better food and the off-list wine will blow any other lounge in the world away.
JAL’s HND lounge is also very mediocre. I’m not sure why you think it has a place here as it’s more akin to a solid J lounge with nice curry and decent sushi.
I’d suggest you replace these two with the QF F Lounge in Singapore and the Chelsea Lounge in JFK.
Oh, Tony, bless your heart for crawling out from whatever economy seat you've been stewing in to play armchair expert. You think you're dropping truth bombs on Ben's lounge rankings? Spare me the lecture from someone whose idea of "research" is probably a single layover where the free pretzels ran out. You're so out of touch with what makes a lounge elite that your suggestions scream "budget blogger with a grudge."
Let's dismantle your hot...
Oh, Tony, bless your heart for crawling out from whatever economy seat you've been stewing in to play armchair expert. You think you're dropping truth bombs on Ben's lounge rankings? Spare me the lecture from someone whose idea of "research" is probably a single layover where the free pretzels ran out. You're so out of touch with what makes a lounge elite that your suggestions scream "budget blogger with a grudge."
Let's dismantle your hot mess of a critique, point by point, because apparently, you need a desktop review to understand why Ben's opinion forged from actual global travel, not your one-off whine-fest—carries more weight than your irreverent fanfic.
First, Al Safwa in Doha: You call it "repulsive microwaved food, extremely cheap wine, chaotic staff, and long shower waits"? That's rich coming from the guy who'd probably rate a gas station lounge five stars if it had Wi-Fi. Recent visitors and experts beg to differ—it's still a top-tier contender for its cathedral-like architecture, private screening rooms, duty-free bliss, and à la carte menus that outshine most airport slop. Sure, it's not perfect on peak days, but "no longer top 10"? That's your inconsequential opinion trying to pass as fact, Tony—like mistaking a bad day for a bad lounge. Ben's got the track record to call it as a standout; you've got... what, a grudge from a delayed shower?
Then EK's F lounge: "Too busy and soulless, but better food and off-list wine"? Congrats on noticing the wine—must be a first for you. But soulless? That's code for "I couldn't handle the crowds of actual high-flyers." It's a powerhouse for a reason: innovative à la carte, premium pours that do indeed eclipse the competition, and an energy that says "global hub," not "nap pod for complainers." If that's your idea of a knock, you're just exposing your low bar.
JAL's HND lounge "mediocre, akin to a solid J lounge with curry and sushi"? Oh, please. You're the one who's mediocre here, Tony—an inconsequential nitpicker with undescended little grapes masquerading as a critic. That lounge is a serene masterpiece: impeccable service, authentic Japanese fare (yes, including that killer curry and sushi), and a design that whispers luxury, not screams for attention. It's earned its spot in top lists because it delivers quiet excellence, not your chaotic expectations. Downgrading it to "J-level" just shows you've never appreciated subtlety over spectacle.
And your "replacements"? QF F Lounge in Singapore—great, but it's more flash than finesse, and already on plenty of radars without your endorsement. Chelsea at JFK? Solid new addition with that killer Champagne bar and cozy vibes, but it's got staffing hiccups and zero natural light—hardly a slam-dunk swap for proven icons. Ben's list isn't a democracy; it's curated from boots-on-the-ground expertise you clearly lack.
Tony, your post isn't insight, it's an irreverent tantrum from someone who resents that Ben's voice echoes farther because he's earned it. Stick to your microwaved opinions and leave the rankings to the pros. Next time, try visiting more than once before you "assure" the world of anything. The rest of us will keep flying first while you simmer in steerage.
Nonsense, poopypants!
I agree with 1990.
You cannot be serious.
I'm a big fan of the KLM Crown Lounge in Houston. Can't beat the value!
AF lounge in Houston sends it's regards.
I think AA/BA have done an excellent job at JFK T8 with Chelsea and Soho. Ironically, Chelsea (the actual First lounge) doesn't get the view; while, Soho (elevated Business lounge) does. Bah!
I stayed at the SWISS ZHR lounge several years ago and was wholly unimpressed by the food - a beautiful space with phenomenal Swiss hospitality, but less than palatable food.
I have not visited that lounge but will say that Germanic food is its own thing. Even Michelin-starred restaurants in the Germanic world are a very different experience. It's a matter of personal taste -- no pun intended.
Other ‘1990’: Was that an inadvertent name choice, or were you pulling an ‘Eskimo’/‘Jessica’ and purposely doing duplicates/impersonating? Not a bad comment. Honestly, something I’d probably say anyway. Bah!
Albeit I haven't visit all of your TOP ten Lounges I rank up untill now MUC & ZRH as my favourites.
The AF I haven't visited because I was never an AF freak. Happens rarely but as soon as I know I have to transit CDG there is nothing that can make me feel good. This is the most horrible Airport I have ever been. I almost would consider LHR as a paradise as a comparision.
Would be interesting to see a historic ranking as well, e.g. the old TG F lounge (including spa), or best outstation F lounges, SQ F SYD, LH F BOS, etc.
I agree.
The JAL First Lounge at HND is pretty underwhelming, IMO.
I'd put the Qantas First Lounge LAX and BA's Concorde Room at LHR ahead of it. Possibly the Chelsea Lounge at JFK T8 as well.
As the Qantas LAX lounge is singularly uninspiring, to say that you would rank it above anything is making a statement.
@Bob
I agree with your assessment of the JAL HND lounge.
Not only is the JAL First in HND underwhelming, in a recent visit I realized that they managed to ruin the previously-nice First lounge in NRT as well. Their new design concept feels like a cheap cafeteria.
Great list, Lucky.
Next time you swing by the LH FRA First Terminal, try eating there. The food quality has deteriorated quite a bit. The staff is outsourced. It seems that they’re cutting some corners.
Who would have thought, given the CEO isn’t exactly a customer-experience fan (or expert, or someone who cares) . Still a nice lounge.
You must have hit off day. Wife and I went through it this year, and was great.
The newly opened Encalm Xenia at DEL (although a contract lounge) is up there as well. With a full private bedroom, excellent food and alcohol and complementary spa
Is that you Proximanova?
Another one of your "visualise yourself"?
Is that you Fake Eskimo?
Another one of your "fake eskimo"?
If you're trying to prented to be me.
First, try to be me.
SQ F lounge is nice but to be honest Singapore airport is such a joy to explore and has soo much good food that I only spend a fraction of my time inside the lounge, but the in air product of SQ F is excellent everytime. The FCT in Frankfurt is alright. I found it to be a let down after all the blog hype. Have been there multiple times. The people in the lounge...
SQ F lounge is nice but to be honest Singapore airport is such a joy to explore and has soo much good food that I only spend a fraction of my time inside the lounge, but the in air product of SQ F is excellent everytime. The FCT in Frankfurt is alright. I found it to be a let down after all the blog hype. Have been there multiple times. The people in the lounge are nice, however when I was there the beds were always occupied, they were out of the whiskeys I was looking for, the food was ok, and they don't sell single cigars so unless you want to buy a box you better bring your own to use the cigar room. Yea its nicer than many lounges and is fun to be driven to plane but beyond that I could take it or leave it. If staying in Frankfurt the first class drop off terminal is nice, but I always found the in air F product of LH to be sorely lacking. I enjoyed the Pier more when it came to the in lounge experience.
Are you sure you're talking about the overrated Changi?
I'd rather spend time in the Private room.
KLM*
"it sure would be nice if Singapore Airlines escorted first class passengers to the gate and allowed them to jump the queue,"- you know how arrogant and entitled that sounds? Its a short wait for security at the gate. its not like most places where you are going through security with people from every flight. Its just people getting on your plane and you still get to board before them. You really want to be...
"it sure would be nice if Singapore Airlines escorted first class passengers to the gate and allowed them to jump the queue,"- you know how arrogant and entitled that sounds? Its a short wait for security at the gate. its not like most places where you are going through security with people from every flight. Its just people getting on your plane and you still get to board before them. You really want to be escorted to cut in front of the people in line who got there before you? If it bothers you soo much then just wait until closer to the gate closing time. By that point people will have all cleared and you can just walk straight on to the plane. Its not like in first class you have to be concerned about getting on board to get baggage space etc.
It’s not arrogant. If you travel First it’s an absolute expectation.
Disagree, Icarus.
I went back and re-read my comment and apologize as it was a little much.
I shouldn't have said "absolute expectation" and I more meant that it is a "nice-to-have".
@Icarus, it's still public transport- and some of us may feel awkward getting people to help us jump the queue in a public facility just because we are a good customer of a private business using it. That's obviously very different from using a designated fast track lane for premium pax [or indeed a VIP terminal].
Disagree, fake Eskimo.
Having recently visited the JAL First Class lounge in HND, I would rate Virgin's ClubHouse in London above it and the VS Lounge is a business class lounge. So surely there must be another first class lounge somewhere that's better than the JAL HND lounge.
I would rank them like this:
1. Lufthansa First Class Terminal FRA
2. Swiss First Class Lounge E ZRH
3. Lufthansa First Class Lounge K/L (Satellite) MUC
4. Lufthansa First Class Lounge B FRA
5. Lufthansa First Class Lounge A FRA
6. Swiss First Class Lounge A ZRH
7. Lufthansa First Class Lounge A FRA
8. Lufthansa First Class Lounge G MUC
100. Air France La Premier-Inn
So Lufthansa directed their Skytrax bribe your way eh?
@David -- No need to bribe when you are the best
Play of words of the hotel chain Premier Inn? Guess what - jokes on you - most awarded hotel chain globally as of this year. Egg on your face.
@Eskimo -- Don't get me wrong, I am a fan of Premier Inn hotels. They account for the majority of my stays when I'm in London, UK. Great beds. It's mainly a play on words
Apology accepted!!!
Fake Eskimo accepted!!!
Play of words of the fake Eskimo? Guess what - jokes on you - most awarded name globally as of this year. Eskimo on your face.
Play of words of the fake Eskimo? Guess what - jokes on you - most awarded name globally as of this year. Eskimo on your face.
Quiet you!
You both are fake Eskimos!!!
I rest my case.
False! This is not rested as this is not a real Eskimo!
True! This is not rested as you're not real Eskimo, aka fake Eskimo.
Thanks fake Eskimo for taking the bait and admit it.
"We're all Charlie Kirk" but it's Eskimo.
I know UA J passengers have access to the EK J lounge, but can they pay the $150 to access the EK F lounge, too?
Very much hoping Swiss will offer me an affordable upgrade to First this week on my ZRH-YUL leg so I can experience the lounge. I have tried both the LH first class lounges at FRA and MUC in recent years and preferred the former.
The fact that the new Air India F lounge in DEL isn’t on the list is pure racism
Duh
Hmm. What's on the menu? Deep-fried turds?
Hmm. What's on the menu? Deep-fake Eskimo?
6 out of 10 on the list are Asian carriers. It might be that Ben has not visited that lounge yet. It might be that Ben has visited that lounge and ranked it #11. I don't think your conclusion is fair.
Telling the truths isn't a racism.