Alaska Airlines has opened its largest Californian-based airport lounge following a $30 million relocation in San Francisco, United States (US).
The newest Alaska Lounge officially launched on July 25, 2024, at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in Harvey Milk Terminal 1 after waving goodbye to its previous base in Terminal 2.
The project took two years to complete and came hand in hand with Alaska Airlines commencing operations from Harvey Milk last month.
Stretching over 11,000 square feet, the new lounge has 55% more seating than the previous offering, which will be welcome news for Alaska’s five million guests who travel through SFO each year.
An Alaska spokesperson said that the new lounge offers passengers an “unparalleled pre-flight experience with a welcoming West Coast vibe, open spaces bathed in natural light and warm finishes”.
On entrance passengers will have access to hand-crafted espresso beverages from the barista station and for those searching for something a little stronger, alcoholic drinks are available at a flashy contemporary bar.
Two made-to-order pancake machines will help take care of hungry tummies along with a complimentary selection of food and drinks, including sourdough bread and spreads.
Signature loungers positioned by floor-to-ceiling windows with an enviable view of the airfield are sure to be hugely popular and there are plug-in outlets for charging devices at nearly every seat in the lounge.
Alaska has also installed privacy booths for guests wishing to get some peace when making confidential calls to the office or home.
As an eco-conscious airline, Alaska partnered with William Duff Architects to secure LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification.
“The Lounge will achieve certification through water-efficient measures and the use of low-emitting materials to reduce energy use,” the airline said.
Alaska Airlines is rolling out its largest ever summer schedule this year with up to 11 daily flights to Seattle and six daily flights to Portland from San Francisco.
“Today’s unveiling of our elegantly designed Lounge at SFO represents the culmination of over two years of dedicated commitment to enhance the way we care for our guests,” said Sangita Woerner, Senior Vice President of marketing and guest experience at Alaska Airlines.
Woerner added: “Our Lounges redefine the premium travel experience, providing top-tier amenities and ample space to escape the hustle and bustle of the airport, whether you’re traveling with Alaska or our oneworld and global airline partners.”
Access to the new lounge is available to Alaska Lounge members or by buying a single-entry pass with a valid Alaska, oneworld or global airline boarding pass.