Star Alliance has opened up its third branded lounge to paid-for access, with the group’s facility at Rio de Janeiro airport the latest to offer the service.

Subject to availability passengers can now pre-book access to the lounge for a cost of US$55 for three hours, regardless of membership status or cabin class.

Star Alliance also said that “Passengers will also enjoy a discount if they are a member of a Star Alliance member airline’s frequent flyer programme”.

Star Alliance Gold customers and those travelling in eligible cabin classes on Star Alliance member airlines will continue to benefit from complimentary access to the lounge, which is located on level 3 of the airport’s international departures pier.

The lounge can accommodate up to 150 guests, and features handmade furniture crafted by local designers, and views of downtown Rio and Sugar Loaf Mountain.

The group’s Rio de Janeiro lounge is the third to offer paid-for access, joining Ezeiza International airport in Buenos Aires and more recently Los Angeles International.

Star Alliance lounge at LAX offers paid access

Commenting on the news Star Alliance VP customer experience Christian Draeger, said:

“At Star Alliance we are always looking to see how we can do more to offer passengers a seamless, great experience. Adding Rio De Janeiro as the third Star Alliance lounge to offer paid access is in line with this.

“Now, more passengers can relax and indulge in this beautiful space before a flight. Online pre-booking also makes the process very easy, so passengers can plan in advance and head to the lounge without any worries.

“We welcome more passengers to our Star Alliance lounge in Rio, and will explore expanding paid access to more of our lounges in the future.”

staralliance.com