Etihad Opens Sydney Premium Lounge

Etihad Airways today officially opened its first and business class lounge at Sydney’s Kingsford Smith International Airport, its first in Australia.

Located in the international terminal’s Pier C, adjacent to Gate 51, the two-level facility spans 798 sqm and enables passengers the chance to relax, eat, drink or work.

Business travellers will warm to the free wifi, Apple computers and multiple electrical and USB power outlets. Other facilities include dedicated male and female bathrooms with showers; a children’s play room; male and female prayer rooms; and armchairs in the relaxation zone.

Diners can choose from a restaurant-style à la carte dining menu or buffet and a range of drinks that includes local Australian producers.

The lounge is open to Diamond First Class and Pearl Business Class guests and qualifying members of Etihad Guest (codeshare and partner airlines, and Virgin Australia operated Sydney-Abu Dhabi services) as well as Virgin Australia Velocity Frequent Flyer Gold and Platinum members and Virgin Australia Business Class passengers.

The lounge joins a growing list of premium lounges globally, including Abu Dhabi, Dublin, Frankfurt, London Heathrow, Manchester, Paris and Washington DC. New lounges are planned for Los Angeles, New York (JFK) and Melbourne during the next 12 to 18 months.

The Sydney route will be among the first in Etihad’s network to experience The Residence when the UAE carrier starts scheduled A380 services in June 2015.