Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - Etihad Airways has launched a contemporary airport lounge brand in partnership with No1 Lounges. To be known as 'The House', the project is the result of a unique collaboration between the airline and the award-winning lounge provider, which will operate the new brand.
The project begins at London Heathrow, where Etihad
Airways' lounge will be rebranded 'The House, home of Etihad Airways and other
leading airlines'. The scope of the new lounge brand may be expanded to include
other lounges.
No1 Lounges has worked closely with Etihad Airways to
create a bold, contemporary and aspirational experience which will continue to
deliver and exceed the service, hospitality and interior design expectations of
the airline's discerning customers.
Linda Celestino, Etihad Airways Vice President Guest
Experience and Delivery, said: "This is an innovative development for
Etihad's international lounge offering. No1 Lounges stood out for their
operational skill and expertise, and for their creative approach to Etihad's
lounge needs.
"This new venture will enable the airline to
maintain its brand presence, and at the same time enhance and improve the
overall lounge experience for our premium guests. It will also provide an
opportunity for our Economy guests to upgrade their pre-flight
experience."
The choice of UK-based No1 Lounges for this project
follows a study of leading global lounge service providers and an extensive RFP
process by the airline. No1 Lounges' proven expertise and experience will see a
number of enhancements to the lounge experience for Etihad Airways' customers,
building on the airline's reputation for service excellence, and providing more
choice and quality. This collaboration will also allow better utilisation of
the lounge and make the experience accessible to a wider market.
Phil Cameron, Chief Executive Officer, No1 Lounges,
said: "We have worked closely with Etihad Airways over the last year to
develop a new brand which complements its world-class in-flight service, to
modernise the lounge interiors and to broaden the lounge's appeal.
"We applaud Etihad Airways for breaking new
ground, by working so closely with an independent operator like No1. Together,
we have found ways of improving the lounge experience for the airline's guests,
while creating a much more effective operating model."
Complimentary entry will continue to be offered to
Etihad Airways Business Class and First Class customers, and to those
travelling in The Residence. Gold and Platinum members of the airline's Etihad
Guest frequent flyer programme and Business Class and First Class travellers
ticketed on codeshare partner services operated by Etihad Airways will also
eligible for access.
The airline will also offer paid-for access to The
House for its Economy Class travellers. The lounge will also continue to be
used by the premium passengers of a small number of other airlines and, subject
to availability, will be available for purchase by passengers of other airlines.
From launch, guests will enjoy a new, white-linen
dining experience and a more extensive bar service, including freshly squeezed
juices and smoothies, world coffees and a more sophisticated wine list.
Over the next year, the lounge will be reconfigured to
include new lounge areas, bar, dining room, and reading room, as well as
upgraded showers and prayer rooms. The new bar will also offer a comprehensive
cocktail and mocktail list.