Qantas has announced plans to revamp its international business class lounge at Sydney airport, adding more seating and a new dining experience.
Work will begin in the third quarter of this year, with a targeted completion date of the end of 2019 – the refurbishment will happen in stages, allowing the lounge to stay open while the work is carried out.
The revamped lounge will offer 30 per cent more seating, a full-service bar, high-speed wifi, a dedicated family zone, “luxury bathroom facilities” and service experience by hotel brand Sofitel.
There will also be a new dining experience by Australian chef and restaurateur Neil Perry, who is employed by the carrier as Creative Director of Food, Beverage and Service.
Interior design will be inspired by “Sydney’s unique lifestyle and geography”, with the creative concept being developed by designer David Caon, responsible for the interiors of Qantas’ B787 Dreamliner aircraft, as well as the new transit lounge at Perth airport.
Qantas recently opened a new lounge at Heathrow T3, and aside from the forthcoming Perth facility there is also a new lounge under construction at Melbourne Domestic airport.
Commenting on the revamp Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said:
“Our business lounge in Sydney is one of the most visited on the international network, so we look forward to upgrading the space with a completely new design and a lot more capacity.
“Our customers have told us that ample space, privacy and ambience are what they value most in their lounge experience, so the overall design of the new lounge will be tailored with this in mind.”
The news comes as Qantas today unveiled record underlying half year profits of A$976 million.
