Etihad Airways has named Sydney and Melbourne as the next airports in the global rollout of new lounge brand ‘The House’, recently launched by the airline in partnership with No1 Lounges.

Eligible customers of Etihad Airways, and those of its partner airline, Virgin Australia, travelling through Sydney will be able to experience The House from October 23, while the new upgraded lounge experience will open for customers departing Melbourne on October 27, following the brand’s launch at Heathrow Terminal 4, on October 5.

The House is the result of a unique collaboration between Etihad Airways and award-winning lounge provider, No1 Lounges, with the two brands working together to create a stylish and contemporary airport lounge experience in keeping with Etihad’s design and guest experience philosophy.

Linda Celestino, Etihad Airways vice president guest experience and delivery, said: “In developing the new brand, we worked to one very simple, but specific objective, which was to take everything that makes our lounges great, the ambience, the design, the food and beverage offering, and make it even better.

“Together with No1 Lounges, we are evolving the lounge experience for our guests at more key locations around the world, ensuring they feel at home, able to enjoy all the benefits and luxuries they have come to expect from Etihad, in the new setting of The House.”

The introduction of The House to Sydney and Melbourne airports underscores the importance of the Australian market to the national airline of the UAE, which has been serving Australia since 2007.  

“We are more committed to Australia than ever and the launch of The House in Sydney and Melbourne, two of the most important gateways in our network, alongside London, is testament to that. We look forward to welcoming our guests down-under to a new and enhanced airport experience,” added Celestino.

To be known as 'The House, home of Etihad Airways', the new brand represents Etihad and the needs of its premium customers through three core pillars: simplicity with sophistication, privacy with attentiveness; and tranquillity with engagement.

From launch, the kitchens and bars will offer greater choice, with emphasis on wellbeing and local produce. All dishes will be freshly prepared and guests will be able to enjoy self-service and a la carte menus in the upgraded dining areas. The bars will have a new cocktail and mocktail list, and a selection of great Australian wines.

Over the next year, both lounges will be refurbished and see the introduction of new reading rooms. The House in Sydney will have a new private room for VIP guests, such as those travelling in the Residence.

Phil Cameron, chief executive officer, No1 Lounges, said: “Etihad is a fantastic brand and we’ve thoroughly enjoyed creating the new lounge concept with them. The House maintains Etihad’s core brand presence at these locations, enhances the overall guest experience and broadens its appeal to a wider market.”

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. - TradeArabia News Service