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One of the bigger positive changes that I’ve noticed in the aviation world over the past 4 – 5 years (from a passenger experience perspective) is that airlines have been taking their lounge products a lot more seriously.
American Airlines, Delta and even United have all embarked on lounge opening/renovation projects, airlines like Cathay Pacific and Qantas have opened up beautiful lounges across the globe…and even cheapskates like British Airways have loosened the purse strings enough to allow some much-needed refurbishment to its lounges.
Air France is another airline that has been investing it the experience it offers its premium-cabin passengers and, to that end, it has just reopened a refurbished and expanded longe at Washington-Dulles international airport.
The lounge is primarily open to Air France’s First Class (La Première) and Business Class flyers together with Flying Blue Elite Plus members. It covers an area of approximately 6,600 square feet (615 square meters) across two levels, is located opposite Gate A20, and can hold up to 155 guests.
The lounge is also open to Priority Pass members at the following times:
- 10:30 – 14:00 daily
- 18:00 – 23:45 daily
Note: Priority Pass access may be restricted at busier times
On the lounge’s main level there’s a central bar which Air France describes as being “dressed in a lacquered metal structure and completely open to the lounge“…
…and which offers a selection of Champagnes, wines, and spirits all served by a dedicated bartender.
Dining takes center stage in the new lounge as guests have the choice of partaking in the new “night service” or enjoying a self-service buffet with a “cold, sweet and savoury selection“.
The night service is aimed at customers on Air France’s AF27 flight which departs Washington at 21:10 and offers flyers the opportunity to enjoy a full dinner service in the lounge ahead of departure.
This allows passengers to use the length of the flight for rest and sleep undisturbed by dinner service.
Passengers choosing to make the most of the night service are offered the same “gourmet French meal” as the one served on board. This comprises a starter, a hot dish, a selection of cheeses, desserts and a choice of Champagnes and wines all served at their lounge table.
Per Air France, within the lounge guests will also find:
- A VIP area exclusively for First Class flyers
- An area reserved for “Ultimate” flyers
- A lobby equipped with new “eligibility kiosks” (to prioritize access)
- A co-working space
- Free Wi-Fi access and electrical/USB outlets close to each seat;
- A lounge area reflecting the architectural design of the latest Air France lounges – wide bench seating, brightly-colored individual seats “that give the lounge its own distinctive identity”
- A press kiosk offering French and international newspapers and magazines, in addition to the digital offer available on the “Air France Play” app;
- Shower facilities
Bottom Line
With a maximum capacity of just 155 people this isn’t one of the bigger lounges you’ll find in Air France’s network but, for Washington D.C. that should be more than enough.
The lounge itself looks very nice and it’s a pleasant bonus that it continues to be open to Priority Pass members (albeit at select times of the day and subject to capacity constraints).
The night service is definitely something that will be of benefit to passengers on the overnight flights to Europe as the travel time is short enough to make it next to impossible to both eat onboard and have a full, relaxing night’s sleep – I’ll be making the most of this the next time I’m flying with Air France our of Dulles.
Overall, this is another good-looking lounge addition to Air France’s worldwide network and one that will be welcomed by travelers flying out of DC.
