27 May 2014

Etihad launches Sydney First & Business Class Lounge

Source: Etihad.
Etihad Airways has officially opened its First and Business Class Lounge at Sydney’s Kingsford Smith International Airport – the airline’s first in Australia and the newest addition to its collection of premium lounges worldwide.

Located in the international terminal’s Pier C, adjacent to Gate 51, the new lounge offers guests a relaxing environment with quality furnishings and a contemporary design inspired by Etihad Airways flagship lounges in Abu Dhabi.

James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, who was in Sydney for the ribbon-cutting ceremony said: “It’s all about offering an experience in the lounge that not only sets the tone for but is also consistent with the flight experience ahead. I’m confident the wonderful team of hospitality professionals we have in our Sydney lounge, together with our check-in staff and guest service agents, will ensure we deliver on that promise.”

Set over two natural light-filled levels and an area of 792 sq m, the Sydney lounge offers business amenities with Macintosh computers; complimentary Wi-Fi; multi-zone electrical and USB power outlets; dedicated male, female and accessible bathrooms with shower facilities; male and female prayer rooms; and armchairs in the relaxation zone.

Lounge guests will also be treated to Etihad Airways signature food and beverage service with a choice of restaurant-style a la carte dining and a sumptuous buffet.

The Sydney lounge is open to Etihad Airways Diamond First Class and Pearl Business Class guests and qualifying members of the Etihad Guest loyalty programme. Virgin Australia Velocity Frequent Flyer Gold and Platinum members and Virgin Australia Business Class guests flying to Abu Dhabi are eligible to access the lounge pre-flight. Qualifying guests of other codeshare and partner airlines may also use the lounge when flying on Etihad Airways or Virgin Australia operated Sydney-Abu Dhabi services.

The new First and Business Class Lounge in Sydney complements premium lounge facilities in Abu Dhabi, Dublin, Frankfurt, London Heathrow, Manchester, Paris and Washington DC. New lounges are planned for Los Angeles, New York (JFK) and Melbourne over the next 12 to 18 months.

Etihad Airways commenced services to Sydney in March 2007 and today offers twice daily non-stop flights together in partnership with Virgin Australia. The route is served by a mixed fleet of three-class Airbus A340-600 and Boeing 777-300 aircraft. The Sydney route will be among the first in the Etihad Airways network to experience The Residence by Etihad - the world’s most luxurious living space in the air – when the UAE flag carrier commences scheduled A380 services to Sydney in June 2015.