Our Top Airline Lounges Around the Globe

Nearly a decade has passed since my first experience in an airport lounge, which transformed my pre-flight routine. Yet, as any seasoned traveler knows, lounge quality can greatly differ, akin to sitting at the back of economy versus the front of first class.

With new terminals emerging and current facilities being upgraded, the distinction between some lounges and the airport concourse is diminishing. Thus, it’s vital to identify the airport spaces that truly stand apart in opulence, far removed from the sad snack offerings, shrink-wrapped pastries, and dark, windowless areas.

The finest airline lounges boast lavish amenities that could rival a five-star hotel, featuring delights such as à la carte dining, serene private retreats, and spa services. To secure a spot on our list of the world’s best, airlines must consistently provide a top-tier experience across at least three airports. Instead of spotlighting individual lounges, we’re focusing on airlines that excel in delivering an overall luxurious lounge network.

In essence, one exceptional airline lounge isn’t sufficient; the entire collection must generally reflect a higher standard. Let’s dive deeper into our selections.

Air France

Ideal for: modern design

For travelers in search of a sleek French atmosphere at the airport, Air France’s extensive network of business-class lounges is the perfect choice. French elegance is evident throughout, from dishes like croque monsieur and boeuf bourguignon to an abundance of champagne. At New York City (JFK) and Paris (CDG), passengers can indulge in complimentary pre-flight facials on a first-come, first-served basis.

Access Guidelines

SkyTeam elites and business-class travelers can enter Air France Lounges. Some lounges are also available to Priority Pass holders, including those in San Francisco (SFO) and Washington Dulles (IAD).

Cathay Pacific Airways

Ideal for: unwinding

Based in Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific features luxurious lounges resembling living rooms, not only at its main hub but also at various global locations. At Hong Kong (HKG), the Pier lounge (a personal favorite) provides a comfortable retreat divided into first-class and business-class areas. It boasts plush carpets, mid-century modern design, and a calming atmosphere for guests. On the first-class side, visitors can enjoy a complimentary 15-minute massage for the feet, neck, shoulders, or scalp. Similar decor can be found at Cathay Pacific lounges in London-Heathrow (LHR) and Tokyo-Haneda (HND), albeit without spa services.

Access guidelines

Oneworld Sapphire members and above can enter any Cathay Pacific business-class lounge, while Emerald members can access the first-class lounges in Hong Kong and London. Additionally, a first- or business-class ticket grants entry.

Delta Air Lines

Ideal for: lounge memberships

Delta Sky Clubs stand out as the premier airline lounges available for access through a membership program. While they sometimes face criticism for being crowded, these lounges provide an impressive array of food and drinks (with premium options available for purchase), stylish shower suites, soundproof phone booths, and often, outdoor areas to enjoy some fresh air before your flight. Notable Sky Club terrace locations include New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), and Salt Lake City (SLC).

Access instructions

Access to Sky Clubs requires travelers to hold a club membership (starting at $695 per year for Delta Medallion elite members), be flying Delta One or a premium cabin on a partner SkyTeam airline, or possess a valid premium credit card and ticket.

Qantas Airways

Ideal for: exceptional dining

While numerous upscale airline lounges feature à la carte dining, Sydney-based Qantas arguably provides the most reliable experience. In many of its first- and business-class lounges—located in Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Hong Kong (HKG), Los Angeles (LAX), and London-Heathrow (LHR)—travelers can enjoy a complete sit-down meal alongside a selection of the finest Australian wines. Signature dishes include salt and pepper squid served with a green chili dipping sauce and gin from Cape Byron Distillery in Australia.

Access instructions

Oneworld Sapphire members and higher can enter any Qantas business-class lounge, while Emerald members have access to first-class lounges in Sydney, Melbourne, and Los Angeles. A premium-class ticket also allows entry.

Qatar Airways

Ideal for: luxury and top-notch amenities

Let's begin with the astonishing range of lounge features at Doha (DOH), the main hub for Qatar Airways. The design of the Al Safwa First Lounge pays homage to the architectural splendor of Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art, creating an atmosphere that feels like an art exhibit. It offers à la carte dining, an impressive water feature, spa treatment rooms, private nap pods, a family and children's area, and much more.

Doha's business-class lounges—including the Al Mourjan Business Lounge and the Garden Lounge—are equally exceptional, boasting shower suites with luxury Diptyque products, a sushi bar, a fully equipped fitness studio, and a manicure and pedicure station. Although not quite as extravagant as in Doha, Qatar also features remarkable Premium Lounges in London-Heathrow (LHR) and Bangkok (BKK).

Access guidelines

Simply having elite status isn’t enough; a premium-class ticket on a oneworld Alliance airline is required to access the lounges mentioned above.

United Airlines

Ideal for: business-class travelers

United’s network of Polaris Lounges—located in Chicago (ORD), Houston (IAH) (as shown above), Newark (EWR), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and Washington-Dulles (IAD)—stands out as superior to any other domestic carrier’s business-class lounge offerings. With features like à la carte dining, marble-tiled shower suites, and nap pods, it rivals some of the finest lounges globally.

In early 2024, United Polaris lounges will enhance their wellness offerings with new Reset Suites. These semi-private spaces will feature a Therabody Lounger, designed to provide sound and vibration therapy for comprehensive relaxation. Other amenities will include Theraguns, SmartGoggles (an eye mask and massager), and RecoveryAir boots to aid circulation, lymphatic drainage, and muscle recovery. A perfect way to recharge before your flight.

Access instructions

Simply having elite status does not grant entry to Polaris lounges; a premium-class ticket on United or another Star Alliance airline is necessary for access to the Polaris Lounge.