United MileagePlus (Consolidated) - 1k denied entry outgoing intL PAX,SQ SilverKris Lounge at SFO UA Traveller Access

Wow now they are just getting crazy, last year was denied entry since i was incoming on a international ticket, she said outgoing only sorry, now this year she said "no use the United lounge". She is now denying all United MP pax or just me? B
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This time was on an award ticket with a transfer on SQ to Korea. Why can they just deny only United customers only? I reported them to DOT and Star Alliance stating unfair rules.
http://www.staralliance.com/en/contacts/
http://airconsumer.dot.gov/escomplaint/es.cfm

The SQ lounge is worst service in this aspect ever, Now if they are full ok since it is a small lounge but if you have few customers let some Star Gold in to experience the great lounge.

This time was on an award ticket with a transfer on SQ to Korea. Why can they just deny only United customers only?...

If you are on the nonstop SQ SFO-ICN, then you are a "SQ customer" why would they deny you access as a Star Gold? That doesn't make sense.

If you are flying SFO-LAX-NRT-ICN, as an "United Customer" then the agent was correct in denying you access as you are only eligible for lounge access at your international gateway.

I didnt get it either. She said use the United club lounge. not for outgoing..

.... I reported them to DOT ....What in the world does the DoT have to do with lounge access?

they do handle customer service complaints.

He's *G and should be granted access to any airport all the way on the same-day international itinerary. The international gateway rule applies to passengers traveling in C/F without *G status.
If you are on the nonstop SQ SFO-ICN, then you are a "SQ customer" why would they deny you access as a Star Gold? That doesn't make sense.

If you are flying SFO-LAX-NRT-ICN, as an "United Customer" then the agent was correct in denying you access as you are only eligible for lounge access at your international gateway.

He's *G and should be granted access to any airport all the way on the same-day international itinerary. The international gateway rule applies to passengers traveling in C/F without *G status.

Yes thank you Nelumbo,

I dont get it either, the rule seems to state one thing then another, ok if i am on a United flight entire way then maybe they have a legitimate reason to deny entry but if i fly on SQ with international gateway then what valid reason do they have to deny? Even with Incoming or outgoing? i just dont get it..

If you are flying SFO-LAX-NRT-ICN, as an "United Customer" then the agent was correct in denying you access as you are only eligible for lounge access at your international gateway.

Wrong!

Assuming 1K is *G (sorry - lost the status track after the merge) as per http://www.starallianceemployees.com/publications/products-services.html you are entitled to use the lounge

I had my personal 'war' against SQ Lounge employees in SYD who were denying access to XX*G and looks like I managed to 'persuade' them to follow the *A rules. The best way: go to starallianceemployees.com, print the relevant reference manual and show it to the Lounge rep...

She is now denying all United pax or just me? http://www.staralliance.com/en/benefits/lounges/lounge-access-policy/

To quote that exact page :

Star Alliance Gold Customers Travelling in Any Class: Customers have access to any Star Alliance member carriers' owned lounges with the Star Alliance Gold logo at the entrance.

Unless things have changed recently, the SQ lounge in SFO does NOT have the "Star Alliance Gold logo at the entrance".

You can complain all you want, but it's not going to help.

Assuming 1K is *G (sorry - lost the status track after the merge)

1K is *G.


I had my personal 'war' against SQ Lounge employees in SYD who were denying access to XX*G and looks like I managed to 'persuade' them to follow the *A rules. The best way: go to starallianceemployees.com, print the relevant reference manual and show it to the Lounge rep...

It was my understanding at SQ personnel at SFO were bending the *A rules due to the size of their lounge. Last December, I had no problem visiting the SQ lounge in SYD as a *G/NZ J passenger.

Unless things have changed recently, the SQ lounge in SFO does NOT have the "Star Alliance Gold logo at the entrance".

I was able to visit the SQ lounge as a UA J/*G flying SFO-SYD (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/17729952-post8.html) last December. I don't recall the lack of Star Alliance Gold signs, although I do remember SQ being sticklers for requiring UA elites to be flying out of SFO on an international flight (rather than connecting to another airport for their international segment).

Looking at the Lufthansa Lounge listing, they omit SQ at SFO for business class and/or *G passengers.

To quote that exact page :



Unless things have changed recently, the SQ lounge in SFO does NOT have the "Star Alliance Gold logo at the entrance".

You can complain all you want, but it's not going to help.

I go to SKL SFO when travelling on UA SFO-SYD

When I do not have my SQ Card, If I show them my UA 1K I am told I have to use United Club because United does not pay SQ because there is UC for United pax. However if I give them my AC AP SE card I am given access.

When United had RCC in SYD same. With no UC in SYD, I can access SYD SKL with my SQ Card, UA Card or my AC AP card.

Unless things have changed recently, the SQ lounge in SFO does NOT have the "Star Alliance Gold logo at the entrance".

You can complain all you want, but it's not going to help.

It shows up as an option on the Star Alliance Lounge Finder so I would hope that it has a *G logo at the entrance.
http://www.staralliance.com/en/benefits/lounges/lounge-finder/

It shows up as an option on the Star Alliance Lounge Finder so I would hope that it has a *G logo at the entrance.
http://www.staralliance.com/en/benefits/lounges/lounge-finder/

It doesn't. The Star Gold sign came down after SQ remodeled the lounge, and removed the F section.

It shows up as an option on the Star Alliance Lounge Finder so I would hope that it has a *G logo at the entrance.
http://www.staralliance.com/en/benefits/lounges/lounge-finder/

It is a "Star Alliance member carriers' owned lounge", but it is NOT a "Star Alliance member carriers' owned lounges with the Star Alliance Gold logo at the entrance", and has not been for some time. There is a very important distinction between those two terms.

but I used the lounge, with my wife and 5 and 8 year old last week. Were flying UA SFO-NRT, tickets showed "J" after the flight number, and my small "GS" they did not ask to see my *A card, just let us in, and logged it (I assume for payment).

regardless there will soon be access to the EVA lounge at SFO... so an entire new set of fun :) ;)

Fun fact: the SQ lounge at SFO doesn't actually exist. It's just a desk with some dragons. The door is painted on.

IIRC the "ban" also includes non-SQ international passengers...

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/united-mileage-plus-pre-merger/1165994-new-policy-2011-skl-access-sfo-permanently-denied-g-domestic.html

Surprise, maybe SQ received so many complaints from their PPS about crowded lounge?

but I used the lounge, with my wife and 5 and 8 year old last week. Were flying UA SFO-NRT, tickets showed "J" after the flight number

The rules are completely different for "J" passengers. International Business/First passengers can access any *A owned airline lounge, regardless of whether it's designated a *A Gold lounge or not. You do need to be departing that airport in international business (not arrivals, not connecting via LAX, etc).

ie, if you're departing SFO in international business/first (which should include Canada/Mexico), on any *A airline (including United), then you should be able to access the SFO SQ lounge, regardless of status.

I didnt get it either. She said use the United club lounge. not for outgoing..

"She" was 100pct correct. Not that it matters but I know her very well, she has worked that lounge for a long time and is a fantastic employee. The DQ lounge is now a mixed use business/first lounge. It is not a "star alliance" lounge so they have no reason to admit anyone not flying SQ in C or F. The Star Alliance louge at SFO is the UClub.

This complasint on FT is bad enough but to send a letter to the DOT cuz you did nt get into a lounge you had to right to anyway :rolleyes: talk about a waste of taxpayers dollars. Luckily i would imagine the complaint went where it belongs - in the garbage

From the StarAlliance Lounge Access Policy

http://www.staralliance.com/en/benefits/lounges/lounge-access-policy/

Star Alliance Gold Customers Travelling in Any Class: Customers have access to any Star Alliance member carriers' owned lounges with the Star Alliance Gold logo at the entrance.

United and US Airways Star Alliance Gold customers may only access the United Clubs and US Airways Clubs within the U.S. when travelling in conjunction with a Star Alliance international flight.

The last rule seems to imply that all UA/US members can only use the United or US clubs in the US even when traveling on international flight on a partner.

United and US Airways Star Alliance Gold customers may only access the United Clubs and US Airways Clubs within the U.S. when travelling in conjunction with a Star Alliance international flight.

The last rule seems to imply that all UA/US members can only use the United or US clubs in the US even when traveling on international flight on a partner.

That exact line has been discussed at length in other threads, and despite the English not necessarily being clear, the intent is.

It is saying that the only time that United (and US) star gold customers will be allowed into a UC/US Airwarys Club is when they are traveling in conjunction with an international flight.

To put it another way, United or US-based *G is NOT sufficient to get you into a UC when traveling on a domestic-only itinerary. This statement has nothing at all to do with the ability to access other, non-UA/US lounges when traveling on either domestic-only or international itineraries.

(Obviously I'm ignoring paid membership, for simplicity)

this is the email i got from the Airlines and what they are saying is not what a few members have said! They are saying i am allowed access but since i didnt have it printed on my boarding pass i was not allowed! Which is not true! I have emailed them a copy of the boarding pass and waiting for response! I got into the United Club fine with the same boarding pass!! Since i checked in at Newark, NJ 2 hours before the flight and it took 6 hours to get to SFO how did i not checkin to SFO-ICN flight??i had both boarding pass in hand with seat assignment! She is now making up stories. Next time i will put my foot down and get a manager to come out since this is getting ridiculous and didnt want to argue it at that moment.
Below is the email i got from them. So chinatraderjmr is incorrect!! Get your facts straight before posting then..

Ref Case # 12080xxxx/NYC
VIA EMAIL
August 27, 2012

Dear xxxx

Star Alliance Gold passenger entitles to a whole range of additional benefits including lounge access, extra baggage allowance, priority boarding, standby status and reservations.

We appreciate your feedback and acknowledged your disappointment with regard to lounge access at San Francisco International Airport. We have since conveyed your feedback to our airport manager.

We checked our record and noted that you had traveled from Newark Liberty Airport to San Francisco International Airport on flight UA1162. When you arrived at terminal 3, you did not checked-in at the counter.

According to our record, your United Star Alliance Gold information was not reflected in your boarding pass when you presented the boarding pass to the lounge staff. Hence, staff asked you to provide your physical membership card as it is mandatory that passenger show a valid Star Alliance Gold membership card to access the lounge.

Unfortunately, you were unable to present your card. For this reason, you were denied lounge access.

Thank you for taking the time and effort to bring this matter to our attention and allowing us the opportunity to explain and response to your concern.

Yours sincerely,

[removed, per policy]
Senior Administration Officer
Singapore Airlines Limited/ Eastern USA

Travelling SFO-NRT yesterday on UA, I was able to access the SKL lounge by showing my UA boarding passes and UA *G card.

From http://www.staralliance.com/en/benefits/lounges/lounge-access-policy/

"Customer must present proof of Star Alliance Gold level status via a valid frequent flyer program Star Alliance Gold level card or other valid indication of Star Alliance Gold level status(bolding mine)"

IMHO, if *G is printed on your boarding pass that should be sufficient, but most lounges do seem to require the actual card.

To quote that exact page :

Unless things have changed recently, the SQ lounge in SFO does NOT have the "Star Alliance Gold logo at the entrance".


It doesn't. The Star Gold sign came down after SQ remodeled the lounge, and removed the F section.

When there 3 months ago the *G sign was on the desk top. Does that satisfy the verbiage 'entrance' to you? It does for me.

IIRC the "ban" also includes non-SQ international passengers...

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/united-mileage-plus-pre-merger/1165994-new-policy-2011-skl-access-sfo-permanently-denied-g-domestic.html

No it doesn't. You're citing a thread that deals with domestic pax as evidence for an across the board ban. Please cite something more substantial.

"She" was 100pct correct. Not that it matters but I know her very well, she has worked that lounge for a long time and is a fantastic employee. The DQ lounge is now a mixed use business/first lounge. It is not a "star alliance" lounge so they have no reason to admit anyone not flying SQ in C or F.

This is the same tripe that has people believing the SIN SKL is only for SQ C/F. It's not true in SIN and it's not true in SFO.

Now I could see the "DQ" lounge being restricted to certain people. :D

Wow now they are just getting crazy, last year was denied entry since i was incoming on a international ticket, she said outgoing only sorry, now this year she said "no use the United lounge". She is now denying all United pax or just me?

So chinatraderjmr is incorrect!! Get your facts straight before posting then..

Umm, I wonder...

SQ lounge at SFO used to be a very nice place to stay before I start my int'l trip on a UA flight. But the service has gone down quite a bid this year. The lady at reception desk uses whatever the reasons to deny entry. I experienced twice this year already. The first time I was told I could not get in since my first leg of the trip was domestic - never happened before but I didn't want ot argue with her. The second time I was told they would not serve anyone except SQ passenger on that day due to the capacity. It was in a late morning. Maybe just my bad luck.

...
This is the same tripe that has people believing the SIN SKL is only for SQ C/F. It's not true in SIN and it's not true in SFO.
...

Can you explain what you mean about SIN SKL?

Can you explain what you mean about SIN SKL?

SKL in SIN is not a *G lounge.

In other word, being a *G (even from SQ) does not make you entitled for SKL in SIN.

Can you explain what you mean about SIN SKL?

SKL in SIN is not a *G lounge.

In other word, being a *G (even from SQ) does not make you entitled for SKL in SIN.

It was posted upthread that the SFO SKL (SilverKris Lounge) was only for SQ C/F pax. This is bunk. There is also a widespread belief that the SIN SKL is only an SQ C/F lounge. This is also bunk.

It was posted upthread that the SFO SKL (SilverKris Lounge) was only for SQ C/F pax. This is bunk. There is also a widespread belief that the SIN SKL is only an SQ C/F lounge. This is also bunk.

SFO SKL access:

F/C pax (regardless of status): Permitted with a valid same day international departure boarding card on a *A flight (any metal) - regardless of carrier or destination

Y pax: Not allowed regardless of carrier since it's technically no longer a designated *A lounge in SFO (despite the little tag on the desk?)

Have I got that right?

I never got denied to SKL at SFO when I flew UA C class international, but I am not sure if I flew UA Y class international I will be allowed to get in.

In addition, I've never had any problem to get in SKL at HKG or at BKK when I flew TG from HKG to BKK or BKK to HKG in economy class with my UA *gold status.

If you are on the nonstop SQ SFO-ICN, then you are a "SQ customer" why would they deny you access as a Star Gold? That doesn't make sense.

If you are flying SFO-LAX-NRT-ICN, as an "United Customer" then the agent was correct in denying you access as you are only eligible for lounge access at your international gateway.

As pointed out above, this statement is completely incorrect.

"She" was 100pct correct. Not that it matters but I know her very well, she has worked that lounge for a long time and is a fantastic employee. The DQ lounge is now a mixed use business/first lounge. It is not a "star alliance" lounge so they have no reason to admit anyone not flying SQ in C or F. The Star Alliance louge at SFO is the UClub.

If what you are saying is true, and I have no way of knowing what is true at this point then we can ASSUME they will follow this reasoning..

If they claim it is a Business/First Class lounge and not a Star Alliance lounge, then it is only for C/F flyers, and SQ *GOLD members cannot use this SQ lounge either. Is that correct?

If they claim it is a Business/First Class lounge and not a Star Alliance lounge, then it is only for C/F flyers, and SQ *GOLD members cannot use this SQ lounge either. Is that correct?

If the initial postulates are correct then the conclusion would be correct. I don't believe it is though as I've been admitted (earlier this year) as a *G in Y (on UA). It's certainly possible that was my lucky day.....

An interesting test would be a *G flying SQ in Y.

If the initial postulates are correct then the conclusion would be correct. I don't believe it is though as I've been admitted (earlier this year) as a *G in Y (on UA). It's certainly possible that was my lucky day.....

An interesting test would be a *G flying SQ in Y.

Me too. In May. Y on UA and she let me in. As I noted, they have progressed to the boarding pass scanner. It was not the same lady that has been there though.

I believe you.

So,
if a Y passenger who is Star Gold is let in,
then it is reasonable to conclude that

...it is still a Star Alliance lounge.


Ta-dah!


.

I never got denied to SKL at SFO when I flew UA C class international, but I am not sure if I flew UA Y class international I will be allowed to get in.

In addition, I've never had any problem to get in SKL at HKG or at BKK when I flew TG from HKG to BKK or BKK to HKG in economy class with my UA *gold status.

Can confirm that, GordonGorden. Exactly my experience on all three lounges you mention.

If you see the Star Gold Logo, you can go in with your Gold Card or other proof of status on an international flight itinerary.

Don't see the logo? Then *G status isn't going to get you in. Not too complicated.

Again -

SFO SKL has been designated as *G lounge.

SIN SKL has not.

See the official airport map from *A:

http://www.staralliance.com/assets/doc/global/pdf/airportmaps/SFO_map.pdf

If you see the Star Gold Logo, you can go in with your Gold Card or other proof of status on an international flight itinerary.

Don't see the logo? Then *G status isn't going to get you in. Not too complicated.

I understand this is the UA forum, but just adding a 'point of information'... but

Actually,domestic flights qualify too (except for UA Golds and US Golds).


.

Can anyone post a picture of the SFO SQ lounge entrance? I would like to see if there is a *A lounge logo, and what the logo looks like?

Can anyone post a picture of the SFO SQ lounge entrance? I would like to see if there is a *A lounge logo, and what the logo looks like?

There is no *A logo outside the door.

(I have a photo, but it will take some time to find it)

ETA: This photo on Flickr seems to work well. As you can see, the only sign outside is the SQ sign. No *A logo around.

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4022/4364365719_69e2297127_z.jpg?zz=1

Great, now I'm going to have to start carrying a *G sign and an adhesive in my carry-on.

So maybe it is only for sq ticketed passengers in c and f as well as sq gold in Y. That would make sense, as an airline is not required to make their lounge available to all and sundry, and if the ua lounge is designated as the * alliance lounge, then sq is within their rights to deny access to non sq ticketed passengers in c and f and sq gold in y

So maybe it is only for sq ticketed passengers in c and f as well as sq gold in Y. That would make sense, as an airline is not required to make their lounge available to all and sundry, and if the ua lounge is designated as the * alliance lounge, then sq is within their rights to deny access to non sq ticketed passengers in c and f and sq gold in y

I was given access in late May on and SFO-SYD ticket in C. Don't recall my BP being scanner, though I was talking to a friend, and may not have been paying enough attention.

I was given access in late May on and SFO-SYD ticket in C. Don't recall my BP being scanner, though I was talking to a friend, and may not have been paying enough attention.

When I used this for SFO-SYD in C in December, the desk agent ended up taking down copious notes from my boarding pass, writing them into a little book they kept at the desk. No scanners were harmed.

There is no *A logo outside the door.

(I have a photo, but it will take some time to find it)

ETA: This photo on Flickr seems to work well. As you can see, the only sign outside is the SQ sign. No *A logo around.



IIRC there is a *A airline chart with the *G logo on the desk. I'm sure this would suffice as a *G marking.

So maybe it is only for sq ticketed passengers in c and f as well as sq gold in Y. That would make sense, as an airline is not required to make their lounge available to all and sundry, and if the ua lounge is designated as the * alliance lounge, then sq is within their rights to deny access to non sq ticketed passengers in c and f and sq gold in y

A number of us have noted gaining entry on non-SQ tickets so your hypothesis needs reworking.

When I used this for SFO-SYD in C in December, the desk agent ended up taking down copious notes from my boarding pass, writing them into a little book they kept at the desk. No scanners were harmed.

I had the same in May. No scanner, instead the particulars from the BP were noted in the book.

There is no *A logo outside the door.

IIRC there is a *A airline chart with the *G logo on the desk. I'm sure this would suffice as a *G marking.



A number of us have noted gaining entry on non-SQ tickets so your hypothesis needs reworking.



I had the same in May. No scanner, instead the particulars from the BP were noted in the book.

The *G mark is on a sign on reception's desk, right inside the lounge. It is a *G lounge for sure.

Now I could see the "DQ" lounge being restricted to certain people. :D

I love those Blizzards they serve in the DQ lounge :-)

For people who keep saying the SFO SKL is for SQ F passengers...unless something changed again, they have been sending them to the UA IFL, at least during the day. The UA IFL definitely has better food offering than this lounge.

I've been turned away continuously from the SFO SKL on domestic tickets for the last year. Didn't we hash this out in 2010 already?

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/united-mileage-plus-pre-merger/1165994-new-policy-2011-skl-access-sfo-permanently-denied-g-domestic.html

I think SFO SKL is still serving UA *G customer who travels in UA Y.
Around mid or late Apr this year, I traveled on SFO-HKG in UA Y and I was able to access the SKL in SFO.
The Lady in SKL reception scanned my boarding pass, and let us (me, my wife and son) to use the lunge. She said nothing except good morning.

My last Int'l flight SFO-NRT on Jul 31 was not able to use SKL in SFO, because it was not open yet (I've been in SFO around 9:30am, but a sign on the door says it opens on 11:00am )

SQ lounge at SFO used to be a very nice place to stay before I start my int'l trip on a UA flight. But the service has gone down quite a bid this year. The lady at reception desk uses whatever the reasons to deny entry. I experienced twice this year already. The first time I was told I could not get in since my first leg of the trip was domestic - never happened before but I didn't want ot argue with her. The second time I was told they would not serve anyone except SQ passenger on that day due to the capacity. It was in a late morning. Maybe just my bad luck.

yeah c.l.i.a you seem to be the only who feels my pain!
first time she said only for outgoing pax, then second time she said sorry for outgoing SQ pax only, then now i am a outgoing pax on SQ and she said sorry please use United Club?? wth? This is all in Y i am 1k Star Gold for past 6 years so no difference there!
According to the email i got from Corporate she is incorrect and should allow entry even to Star gold in Y on Outgoing any flight! this is according to the email i got on page two.

"SFO SKL access:

F/C pax (regardless of status): Permitted with a valid same day international departure boarding card on a *A flight (any metal) - regardless of carrier or destination

Y pax: Not allowed regardless of carrier since it's technically no longer a designated *A lounge in SFO (despite the little tag on the desk?)

Have I got that right? "

not according to the email i got!

I hang out there quite often as a *G. The rule as far as I know is that you must be on an international flight out of SFO. SFO must be your international gateway. I get in when I'm flying Air Canada to YUL or YYZ when the times line up.

At PDX, the RCC agent decided that lounge access is permitted only at international gateway at SFO, since it was on a SQ F ticket on a PDX-SFO-SIN routing.

She could not find a rule that grants access, and claims SQ does not reimburse them for PDX lounge usage. She claims its a change since Continental took over United.
:mad:

At PDX, the RCC agent decided that lounge access is permitted only at international gateway at SFO, since it was on a SQ F ticket on a PDX-SFO-SIN routing.

She could not find a rule that grants access, and claims SQ does not reimburse them for PDX lounge usage. She claims its a change since Continental took over United.
:mad:

So your saying you had a tkt PDX-SFO-ASIA (w the SFO-ASIA portion on SQ and on the same day)? The agent is WRONG. You can use the UCLUB as long as your on a same day *A international tkt. I love it when they make up the rules depending in the weather :rolleyes:

So your saying you had a tkt PDX-SFO-ASIA (w the SFO-ASIA portion on SQ and on the same day)? The agent is WRONG. You can use the UCLUB as long as your on a same day *A international tkt. I love it when they make up the rules depending in the weather :rolleyes:

How come you defend the SQ dragons but dont defend the United dragons??lol
I have proof from the corporate office of SQ that she was incorrect in denying entry for Star gold traveling in Y at SFO please look at page two of this thread!. And please get your "friend" to follow the rules of Star Alliance, which SQ is one of the founding members.

For people who keep saying the SFO SKL is for SQ F passengers...unless something changed again, they have been sending them to the UA IFL, at least during the day. The UA IFL definitely has better food offering than this lounge.

The UA IFL food is typical United food -- meh at best :p There's a bit more selection I guess but the cold chunks of smoked turkey and roast beef with a side of nothing aren't exactly "first class" fodder. When I was last at the IFL they had no hot food at all, whereas the SKL had hot food for their J pax. The IFL is definitely no LH F lounge.

I was flying AC754 and it was delayed 2+ hours (typical these days unfortunately) but it was the best delay of my life :D I ran for the SKL, and enjoyed chicken wings, asparagus with bacon, wonton soup and pot stickers, all hot. That was followed by an assortment of beers and top shelf self-serve liquors, honey-roasted peanuts and Hulu on my laptop. I was thrilled.

As an F pax I'd be torn about which lounge to go -- SKL for the awesome, IFL for the quiet.

As for the title, "1k denied entry..." -- Singapore doesn't care that you're a 1K. To them you're just a Star Gold, and your UA1K is no better to them than my A3*G :p

Same day *A Int'l ticket.
PDX lounge is nothing to write home about.
She eventually relented after I did some pushing, but it seems like the system doesn't have an option for her to account for access.

I like the way LH does at FRA where they scan the barcode and the sytem will decide for them whether one has access.

On another note, I flew LH JFK-FRA A380 F ytd, and it is surreal. Service is excellent and professional.

So your saying you had a tkt PDX-SFO-ASIA (w the SFO-ASIA portion on SQ and on the same day)? The agent is WRONG. You can use the UCLUB as long as your on a same day *A international tkt. I love it when they make up the rules depending in the weather :rolleyes:

Same day *A Int'l ticket.
PDX lounge is nothing to write home about.
She eventually relented after I did some pushing, but it seems like the system doesn't have an option for her to account for access.

I like the way LH does at FRA where they scan the barcode and the sytem will decide for them whether one has access.

On another note, I flew LH JFK-FRA A380 F ytd, and it is surreal. Service is excellent and professional.

I flew YUL-MUC and FRA-JFK on the 388, and +1. It's a surreal experience. If I had the cash to lay down, that's the only way I'd fly :)

I was flying SFO-LHR on Business revenue ticket couple of weeks ago. I decided to stop at SQ lounge at SFO, ti was around 10AM. I got in without any problem lady was nice, welcomed me and didn't even ask for 1K card. She wrote ticket info into small book and that was it. Space and food was much better then UA lounge, i intentionally stooped there too a little bit later. UA lounge was dirty and over crowded, no good!

I was flying SFO-LHR on Business revenue ticket couple of weeks ago. I decided to stop at SQ lounge at SFO, ti was around 10AM. I got in without any problem lady was nice, welcomed me and didn't even ask for 1K card. She wrote ticket info into small book and that was it. Space and food was much better then UA lounge, i intentionally stooped there too a little bit later. UA lounge was dirty and over crowded, no good!

Your access was on the basis of being in a premium cabin on an international flight. *G status was moot.

I've known the woman that runs the SQ lounge for a long time @ she's terrific. I ran into her a few weeks ago & mentioned this thread & the confusion. It's important by the way to note she does not work for SQ. She works for the company contracted to run the lounge. She showed me a message (memo) she received over a year ago from the SQ Station Mgr (am I allowed to post his name here? If so, I will so pax can ask for him since the rules came from him directly). The memo says the lounge is NOT a *G lounge. It's a premium only lounge. Economy pax w *G are to be directed to the Uclub. I'm posting this only cuz arguing w her will get you nowhere. She's an employee, not even of SQ & she needs to do what SQ tells her to do. Complaints should go to the SQ station mgr, it's his rule

FYI - the SQ station mgr is not hard to find in SFO. He does not hide in his office. He's always around in the terminal or at the SQ check in desks

The memo says the lounge is NOT a *G lounge. It's a premium only lounge. Economy pax w *G are to be directed to the Uclub.

Then they shouldn't have a *G placard on the front desk.

Then they shouldn't have a *G placard on the front desk.

Agreed. Don't shoot the messenger :). I only asked cuz I know it's a sore subject with some & thought it was important to point out that she is not an SQ employee and as such, has no say other then following directions from the SQ Station Mgr. I'm sure many have noticed that she does not even have a computer on her desk that's connected to SQ (that's why they must write down BP info by hand. I agree that either the sign needs to come down or they need to allow use of the lounge like any other *A lounge - we just need to complain to the right party if in fact we want to complain

...she is not an SQ employee and as such, has no say other then following directions from the SQ Station Mgr. I'm sure many have noticed that she does not even have a computer on her desk that's connected to SQ (that's why they must write down BP info by hand.

Eerily similar to the scenario in the BKK SKL. Minus the declined entrance. ;)

Eerily similar to the scenario in the BKK SKL. Minus the declined entrance. ;)

I've never been in the BKK SKL. I guess SQ finds it cheaper or easier to hire independent companies to staff & run some of their lounges. I do think that your correct & since the SFO lounge says *G, that it needs to be rectified. I just wonder how to go about doing that.

There are so many examples of lounges not being available throughout the system that I don't know where to begin. The problem w SFO is many are looking to use that lounge as a loophole (flying domestic only). We are able to get away with that w LH in IAD but I think we all know it's just a loophole & these lounges were not intended for use by UA's domestic passengers

I've never been in the BKK SKL. I guess SQ finds it cheaper or easier to hire independent companies to staff & run some of their lounges. I do think that your correct & since the SFO lounge says *G, that it needs to be rectified. I just wonder how to go about doing that.

There are so many examples of lounges not being available throughout the system that I don't know where to begin. The problem w SFO is many are looking to use that lounge as a loophole (flying domestic only). We are able to get away with that w LH in IAD but I think we all know it's just a loophole & these lounges were not intended for use by UA's domestic passengers

I agree with both of your points. [bolded mine]

this is the email i got from the Airlines and what they are saying is not what a few members have said! They are saying i am allowed access but since i didnt have it printed on my boarding pass i was not allowed! Which is not true! I have emailed them a copy of the boarding pass and waiting for response! I got into the United Club fine with the same boarding pass!! Since i checked in at Newark, NJ 2 hours before the flight and it took 6 hours to get to SFO how did i not checkin to SFO-ICN flight??i had both boarding pass in hand with seat assignment! She is now making up stories. Next time i will put my foot down and get a manager to come out since this is getting ridiculous and didnt want to argue it at that moment.
Below is the email i got from them. So chinatraderjmr is incorrect!! Get your facts straight before posting then..

I am not sure if you read in the email that it also said if you have your *G card with you, you would have been allowed. They claimed you didn't have at the time. So did you at the time have your *G card with you ? Or you think you can just use the lounge without *G card like in UA lounge ?

You do realize the official star alliance policy from staralliance.com is you are suppose to have *G card and the same day *A departing international boarding pass with you right ? I know UA lounge doesn't require you to show *G card, but there are many *A partner lounges do.

this is the email i got from the Airlines and what they are saying is not what a few members have said! They are saying i am allowed access but since i didnt have it printed on my boarding pass i was not allowed! Which is not true! I have emailed them a copy of the boarding pass and waiting for response! I got into the United Club fine with the same boarding pass!! Since i checked in at Newark, NJ 2 hours before the flight and it took 6 hours to get to SFO how did i not checkin to SFO-ICN flight??i had both boarding pass in hand with seat assignment! She is now making up stories. Next time i will put my foot down and get a manager to come out since this is getting ridiculous and didnt want to argue it at that moment.
Below is the email i got from them. So chinatraderjmr is incorrect!! Get your facts straight before posting then..

What "FACTS". I made it very clear today that I was only posting what I was told AND SHOWN by the woman in the SQ lounge. It probably is not correct but so what!!! If that's what the lounge attendant was told, then how exactly do you plan to go around her?? Physically push her out of your way?? Since she is following what she believes are the rules, as told to her by the SQ station mgr, then that's who you need to complain to. Complaining to UA wont do anything - Station Mgrs don't exactly listen to anyone but their own bosses. Complaining to the people in the lounge wont help either, regardless of what your BP says. As I mentioned she does not work for SQ & only follows the directions of the SQ Mgr, who went as far as putting it in a memo that the lounge is for premium passengers only. Nothing anyone from UA does or says is going to change that. The sign needs to come down as you are correct in expecting admittance, your just not going to get it

**Also FYI. UA can scan your BP & that's how they know you have admittance. The SQ lounge in SFO is run by a seperate company as I also mentioned. It is not run BY SQ, it is run FOR SQ & since they are not SQ employees, they have no computer to see your details. That would probably be illegal. She gets a paper printout every morning w the names of premium SQ pax flying that day. That's what she follows

Next time ask to speak to the SQ station mgr. he's always around

. . . The problem w SFO is many are looking to use that lounge as a loophole (flying domestic only). . .

Which loophole? Per *A policies, aren't you required to have an int'l itin / BP to be able to enter the lounge?

Which loophole? Per *A policies, aren't you required to have an int'l itin / BP to be able to enter the lounge?

For Premium cabin passengers but not for *G (just need *A BP but not international). Separate special rule for UA/US lounges in USA (UA/US elites need international BP).

Which loophole? Per *A policies, aren't you required to have an int'l itin / BP to be able to enter the lounge?

Only to enter a Uclub / USAir club if your *G membership is with those airlines. I can use my SQ *G card to get into any Uclub for Dom flights

Which loophole? Per *A policies, aren't you required to have an int'l itin / BP to be able to enter the lounge?

No. Per *A policies you are supposed to have a BP (does not need to be INT) and your *G card. Per UA/US policies you must be traveling INT if you're *G with UA/US.

I've known the woman that runs the SQ lounge for a long time @ she's terrific. I ran into her a few weeks ago & mentioned this thread & the confusion. It's important by the way to note she does not work for SQ. She works for the company contracted to run the lounge. She showed me a message (memo) she received over a year ago from the SQ Station Mgr (am I allowed to post his name here? If so, I will so pax can ask for him since the rules came from him directly). The memo says the lounge is NOT a *G lounge. It's a premium only lounge. Economy pax w *G are to be directed to the Uclub. I'm posting this only cuz arguing w her will get you nowhere. She's an employee, not even of SQ & she needs to do what SQ tells her to do. Complaints should go to the SQ station mgr, it's his rule

FYI - the SQ station mgr is not hard to find in SFO. He does not hide in his office. He's always around in the terminal or at the SQ check in desks

That really runs counter to my experiences. My friend and I got into the SKL this past May on United Economy award tickets from SFO-HKG. We were both AC*G and trust me, there was nothing premium about that 744 -- either up front or where we were seated in the back :rolleyes: ;)

I agree with both of your points. [bolded mine]

I disagree completely. Using a decent lounge isn't a loophole, it's a benefit. The fact that the UA and US (and to a slightly lesser extent DL, and to a much greater extent AA) lounges are so poor is a side-issue. The Air Canada lounges system-wide are almost as good as the SKL at SFO (minus hot food, which exists but is limited). And you're allowed in on purely domestic itineraries, and all Business pax (even domestic, even upgrades) and all *Gs and soon most domestic AC*S. And all liquor is self-serve and free. Same all over the world, except in the United States.

I've never had so much trouble getting into such poor lounges as I have here in the US :p

The LH and SQ lounges are what I would consider "normal" or "mid-tier" lounges. Nothing fancy, nothing to write home about, but nothing to complain about either. The fact that they are awesome in comparison to the UA and US lounges says much more about UA and US than about LH and SQ.

Not to mention you're free to use the NZ and AC lounges when at LAX, and nobody's tried to stop people from using the LH lounge at IAD.

The reason they don't want UA domestic people in the SKL is because they're so much better than the lounges literally next door, and they have capacity constraints and both J and F pax to cater to. They're worried people are going to arrive in droves to get away from the poor food and service at the UA lounges, which from this thread is clear people are trying to do :p Particularly since they only open 3h prior to departure of SQ15 and SQ1, both of which are 77Ws (soon SQ1 is going to be 388 for a while) with 50 premium seats (72 on the 388). The lounge only accommodates 80, and that's pretty cramped.

I assume someone with a UClub card is also turned away from the SKL? I have a 2 1/2 hour connection in SFO on a domestic itin in 2 weeks.

I assume someone with a UClub card is also turned away from the SKL? I have a 2 1/2 hour connection in SFO on a domestic itin in 2 weeks.

Lols :p Oh, this was a serious question ;)

You will not be allowed in on a domestic itinerary. That much is clear, so the answer is going to be no.

If you were traveling internationally, however, I think technically you're entitled, since this is not a contract lounge, but a proper lounge operated by a Star Alliance member. I'm not sure what the rules are for paid memberships. It says that you have access to "Star Alliance Branded Lounges (LAX, LHR, etc.)" and "Business Class lounges operated by Star Alliance Partners" -- however sometimes there is a distinction between Business lounges and Star Gold lounges. For instance with Lufthansa, they have Business Lounges (lowest tier) then SEN lounges (mid-tier, Star Gold access) and HON/First lounges (paid/points First only).

My guess is in theory on an international leg, you should be allowed, but you won't be. If someone knows this better than I do I'd be interested in a more informed reply.

Lols :p Oh, this was a serious question ;)

You will not be allowed in on a domestic itinerary. That much is clear, so the answer is going to be no.

If you were traveling internationally, however, I think technically you're entitled, since this is not a contract lounge, but a proper lounge operated by a Star Alliance member. I'm not sure what the rules are for paid memberships. It says that you have access to "Star Alliance Branded Lounges (LAX, LHR, etc.)" and "Business Class lounges operated by Star Alliance Partners" -- however sometimes there is a distinction between Business lounges and Star Gold lounges. For instance with Lufthansa, they have Business Lounges (lowest tier) then SEN lounges (mid-tier, Star Gold access) and HON/First lounges (paid/points First only).

My guess is in theory on an international leg, you should be allowed, but you won't be. If someone knows this better than I do I'd be interested in a more informed reply.

haha, well it was a serious question but it was more of a pipe dream question.

It is no longer a matter of international or domestic flights or not.

AFAIK (from FT), some non-UA/US *G have been denied access by SQ as well. So the ground zero question is how well SQ is enforcing the admission rule that they suppose to do.

It is no longer a matter of international or domestic flights or not.

AFAIK (from FT), some non-UA/US *G have been denied access by SQ as well. So the ground zero question is how well SQ is enforcing the admission rule that they suppose to do.

See my post above. I read the memo to the lounge attendant from the SQ station mgr where he states "the lounge is NOT a *G lounge, it is for premium pax only". Obviously the guy is wrong since there is a *G sign in the lounge but let's get real. It makes no difference if he's wrong or right, no lounge attendant is going to go against orders from her station mgr regardless of what the rules say

This problem needs to be brought to the SQ SMGRS attention as he's the boss & hopefully he will either allow *G in the lounge OR remove the sign.

** If anyone wants the name & email address if the SQ station mgr in SFO, PM me & I'll be glad to give it to you. (I wont be able to answer till Friday)

It is no longer a matter of international or domestic flights or not.

AFAIK (from FT), some non-UA/US *G have been denied access by SQ as well. So the ground zero question is how well SQ is enforcing the admission rule that they suppose to do.

Yeah but as of when? I've gone a number of times over the course of this year and have never been denied when on an international itinerary...

What "FACTS". I made it very clear today that I was only posting what I was told AND SHOWN by the woman in the SQ lounge. It probably is not correct but so what!!! If that's what the lounge attendant was told, then how exactly do you plan to go around her?? Physically push her out of your way?? Since she is following what she believes are the rules, as told to her by the SQ station mgr, then that's who you need to complain to. Complaining to UA wont do anything - Station Mgrs don't exactly listen to anyone but their own bosses. Complaining to the people in the lounge wont help either, regardless of what your BP says. As I mentioned she does not work for SQ & only follows the directions of the SQ Mgr, who went as far as putting it in a memo that the lounge is for premium passengers only. Nothing anyone from UA does or says is going to change that. The sign needs to come down as you are correct in expecting admittance, your just not going to get it

**Also FYI. UA can scan your BP & that's how they know you have admittance. The SQ lounge in SFO is run by a seperate company as I also mentioned. It is not run BY SQ, it is run FOR SQ & since they are not SQ employees, they have no computer to see your details. That would probably be illegal. She gets a paper printout every morning w the names of premium SQ pax flying that day. That's what she follows

Next time ask to speak to the SQ station mgr. he's always around

I will be for sure asking for the Station managers next time! I am already contacting SQ headquarters and complaining about him now!

See my post above. I read the memo to the lounge attendant from the SQ station mgr where he states "the lounge is NOT a *G lounge, it is for premium pax only".

See my previous post as well. Star Alliance indicates this is a *G lounge without doubt:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/19217471-post39.html

This problem needs to be brought to the SQ MGRS attention as he's the boss & hopefully he will either allow *G in the lounge OR remove the sign.

I doubt it will do anything different. Once I mailed (physically) to the SQ CEO. He acted like the dumbest person I have ever know. Yes - even worse than Jeff.

Yeah but as of when? I've gone a number of times over the course of this year and have never been denied when on an international itinerary...

How about domestic? As a *G from AC and A3, you don't have restriction like UA/US *G.

There were 4 of us in Economy going to HKG, 3 of us being *G...let in with no issue at all. It was pretty full inside too...

I've never been in the BKK SKL. I guess SQ finds it cheaper or easier to hire independent companies to staff & run some of their lounges. I do think that your correct & since the SFO lounge says *G, that it needs to be rectified. I just wonder how to go about doing that.

There are so many examples of lounges not being available throughout the system that I don't know where to begin. The problem w SFO is many are looking to use that lounge as a loophole (flying domestic only). We are able to get away with that w LH in IAD but I think we all know it's just a loophole & these lounges were not intended for use by UA's domestic passengers

I don't think its a "loophole" as I think that under *A rules there is a charge back. LH charges UA for our use of the lounge. Maybe I am wrong on this, but my understanding is that UA gets charged. As such LH allows it (at IAD, DTW) as it works for them.

Someone will correct me if I am wrong and LH is just eating the costs... :confused:

I don't think its a "loophole" as I think that under *A rules there is a charge back. LH charges UA for our use of the lounge. Maybe I am wrong on this, but my understanding is that UA gets charged. As such LH allows it (at IAD, DTW) as it works for them.

Someone will correct me if I am wrong and LH is just eating the costs... :confused:

It's a loophole in the sense that the spirit of the *A rules is that US/UA *G pax do not have access to lounges on domestic flights. When the rules were made, apparently they did not anticipate the few edge cases of the SQ/LH lounges. LH seems to be happy to let the loophole exist as it is extra revenue for them.

It must not be a big enough issue for UA that they want to use the energy to get the access policy changed, but I would not be surprised in the least if this loophole is closed sometime soon, especially if FTers here are so insistent on exploiting it to its maximum that it does become worth UA's time to force *A to revisit the rules.

One of those things that we should use discreetly, be glad that the loophole exists, but not be surprised if it is closed. Instead, FTers will do the usual of massively and brazenly exploit it and when the party ends threaten legal action and kick and scream online :rolleyes:

It's a loophole in the sense that the spirit of the *A rules is that US/UA *G pax do not have access to lounges on domestic flights. When the rules were made, apparently they did not anticipate the few edge cases of the SQ/LH lounges. LH seems to be happy to let the loophole exist as it is extra revenue for them.

It must not be a big enough issue for UA that they want to use the energy to get the access policy changed, but I would not be surprised in the least if this loophole is closed sometime soon, especially if FTers here are so insistent on exploiting it to its maximum that it does become worth UA's time to force *A to revisit the rules.

One of those things that we should use discreetly, be glad that the loophole exists, but not be surprised if it is closed. Instead, FTers will do the usual of massively and brazenly exploit it and when the party ends threaten legal action and kick and scream online :rolleyes:

No, it's United and US Airways' rule that you're not allowed into THEIR lounges when you're one of THEIR *Gs when on domestic travel. There wasn't anything Star Alliance could do about it so they just let it go. No other airlines on earth do this. UA/US are just protecting/creating a secondary revenue source instead of considering lounge access as a benefit to loyal frequent travelers like everyone else does.

To quote the Star Alliance site:
United and US Airways Star Alliance Gold customers may only access the United Clubs and US Airways Clubs within the U.S. when travelling in conjunction with a Star Alliance international flight.

It says nothing about other airlines. It's not a loophole, it's UA and US colluding to protect their revenue stream.

(1) Foreign *Gs are good to go into UA/US clubs in conjunction with a same-day departing *A flight.
(2) UA/US *Gs are good to go into UA/US clubs in conjunction with a same-day departing Int'l *A flight.
(3) Any *Gs are welcome in any other *G lounges in conjunction with any same-day departing *A itinerary barring house rules such as Singapore, whether or not they should exist.

No, it's United and US Airways' rule that you're not allowed into THEIR lounges when you're one of THEIR *Gs when on domestic travel. There wasn't anything Star Alliance could do about it so they just let it go. No other airlines on earth do this. UA/US are just protecting/creating a secondary revenue source instead of considering lounge access as a benefit to loyal frequent travelers like everyone else does.

To quote the Star Alliance site:
United and US Airways Star Alliance Gold customers may only access the United Clubs and US Airways Clubs within the U.S. when travelling in conjunction with a Star Alliance international flight.

It says nothing about other airlines. It's not a loophole, it's UA and US colluding to protect their revenue stream.

(1) Foreign *Gs are good to go into UA/US clubs in conjunction with a same-day departing *A flight.
(2) UA/US *Gs are good to go into UA/US clubs in conjunction with a same-day departing Int'l *A flight.
(3) Any *Gs are welcome in any other *G lounges in conjunction with any same-day departing *A itinerary barring house rules such as Singapore, whether or not they should exist.

You aren't making any sense.

1. Almost no other FF program gives *G status to a 50k a year flyer on total lowball fares (let's exclude A3's program). That is why foreign programs allow their *G to use the lounges on all flights, because their elites have spent REAL money on tickets to get *G status. How much would it cost to get *G on LH? NH? AC? A lot more than on UA. Honestly, it's easier and cheaper to get *G & lounge access on all flights from UA - *G can be had for $1500 easy on UA + $400 lounge access. Price it out for any other *A airline and let me know if you can beat that.

2. I understand the current rules just fine, thanks. My point is that the spirit of the rules, not the letter, is to imply that US/UA *G elites are to only have lounge access on international trips. If it starts costing real money to UA to let UA pax use LH lounges in IAD and DTW, you can bet LH will not stand in the way of UA changing the rules to clarify access, as the change is basically peanuts from LH's perspective.

3. Lounge access for all flights is not a "right" of high-tier frequent fliers that US airlines are shamefully violating. FF programs offer a value proposition - your loyalty for some benefits. You are free to take your loyalty to another program that offers lounge benefits for all flights, but good luck finding one that allows for a) decent redemptions b) good upgrade benefits c) lounge access on all flights. If you find this mythical program, please let all of us on FT know - we are waiting with baited breath.

You aren't making any sense.

I'll take these one at a time ;) But I'd like to think I'm making good sense haha.


1. Almost no other FF program gives *G status to a 50k a year flyer on total lowball fares (let's exclude A3's program). That is why foreign programs allow their *G to use the lounges on all flights, because their elites have spent REAL money on tickets to get *G status. How much would it cost to get *G on LH? NH? AC? A lot more than on UA. Honestly, it's easier and cheaper to get *G & lounge access on all flights from UA - *G can be had for $1500 easy on UA + $400 lounge access. Price it out for any other *A airline and let me know if you can beat that.


It's hard to calculate that because most programs allow crediting of either UA or US flights at 100% regardless of fare class, so if you can rack up 50K SMs on UA for $1500 you can do the same over at AC (50K, 100%) and not pay the lounge access fee. There's a lot more to "how much it costs to obtain status" than just the minimum cash figure, but I'll play along.

UA: $1500 + $400 = $1900
US: $1500 + $200 = $1700 (They often sell lounge access for ~$200)
AC: That same $1500 + $0 = $1500
OZ: 40K miles over 2 years -- using your UA numbers, $1200 + $0.
TK: 40K first year, 25K in subsequent years -- $750 + $0
A3: Well let's just say I paid $800 and it's valid for the rest of my life ;)

AC's a special case because until last year it was just 35K/year for Star Gold with full lounge access privileges and all fares credited 100% of miles flown (except for domestic double-discount economy). This year they demolished their award chart (45% increase in F redemptions) started collecting YQ, raised the Star Gold threshold to 50K, but one thing they didn't do is raise the lounge access threshold. It's still 35K, and all UA flights earn 100%, so do TATLs on AC, for now.


2. I understand the current rules just fine, thanks. My point is that the spirit of the rules, not the letter, is to imply that US/UA *G elites are to only have lounge access on international trips. If it starts costing real money to UA to let UA pax use LH lounges in IAD and DTW, you can bet LH will not stand in the way of UA changing the rules to clarify access, as the change is basically peanuts from LH's perspective.

The situation is the same with most other airlines as it is with US legacies. Some people pay an awful lot and don't get status, some people pay next to nothing and get status. It's not the Star Alliance that decided that JUST US AND UA elites can't get into JUST UA AND US lounges, that was decided by UA and US alone.

It doesn't cost LH money to let UA people in, they make money by doing so :p They're likely being reimbursed by some crazy round-about accounting program that's super confidential. But make no mistake, LH doesn't do charity :p I'll address the spirit in the next section.


3. Lounge access for all flights is not a "right" of high-tier frequent fliers that US airlines are shamefully violating. FF programs offer a value proposition - your loyalty for some benefits. You are free to take your loyalty to another program that offers lounge benefits for all flights, but good luck finding one that allows for a) decent redemptions b) good upgrade benefits c) lounge access on all flights. If you find this mythical program, please let all of us on FT know - we are waiting with baited breath.

No, but it is a privilege as specified in the terms and condition of the frequent flier programs of which I am a member. Therefore I am entitled to lounge access per the terms and conditions of that program. If they choose to change their T&Cs that's cool, but until they do, I'll follow the letter of the rules :) and IMHO the spirit, especially since I'm always allowed lounge access as a foreign *G haha.

And don't get me wrong, UA has the best frequent flier program around in a lot of respects :) Just not in terms of lounge access.

I'm sure you already know this, but there's no "mythical program" -- each one has it's advantages and disadvantages and it's up to the individual to weigh the benefits and weaknesses of each program and to decide for themselves what works. Personally I use A3 for the *G, and collect my miles with UA for the lack of YQ.

And don't get me wrong, UA has the best frequent flier program around in a lot of respects :) Just not in terms of lounge access..

Can you imagine what the United Clubs would look like if every 1P and above Joe Domestic Consultant flying from Omaha to Pittsburgh was allowed in? You think its crowded now?

I am all for SFO SKL not allowing domestic pax or UC members in.

I'll take these one at a time ;) But I'd like to think I'm making good sense haha.



It's hard to calculate that because most programs allow crediting of either UA or US flights at 100% regardless of fare class, so if you can rack up 50K SMs on UA for $1500 you can do the same over at AC (50K, 100%) and not pay the lounge access fee. There's a lot more to "how much it costs to obtain status" than just the minimum cash figure, but I'll play along.

UA: $1500 + $400 = $1900
US: $1500 + $200 = $1700 (They often sell lounge access for ~$200)
AC: That same $1500 + $0 = $1500
OZ: 40K miles over 2 years -- using your UA numbers, $1200 + $0.
TK: 40K first year, 25K in subsequent years -- $750 + $0
A3: Well let's just say I paid $800 and it's valid for the rest of my life ;)


Ok sure. You could do this but would it would be a horrible strategy for a US-based flyer that only flies 50k miles a year, as you'd be giving up most of the good ff benefits simply to get lounge access. Moreover, miles credited into the above programs are worth substantially less than MP miles, and their RDM status bonuses (if they exist) are smaller than MP. You're effectively throwing away hundreds of dollars in miles to earn your "free" *G status, at which point you should have just broke down and bought the RCC card.

I contend that my main point stands: most of the other airlines can afford to give lounge access on all flights to *G because it takes giving a large pile of cash to that airline to get *G [see: Lufthansa]; I mean, it is just not practical or wise for Joe Munich-dweller to mileage run 50k lowball miles on US airlines. The fact that a few FTers that fly crazy amounts of miles and can credit some toward a foreign program I don't think distracts from that point.


The situation is the same with most other airlines as it is with US legacies. Some people pay an awful lot and don't get status, some people pay next to nothing and get status. It's not the Star Alliance that decided that JUST US AND UA elites can't get into JUST UA AND US lounges, that was decided by UA and US alone.


You think LH gives two figs about letting us *G on domestic tix into their lounges in IAD and DTW? The revenue they get from it is basically a rounding error, although they won't say no to a few extra bucks. If UA one day decides to care about this, *A lounge access policy will be changed in the blink of an eye without a peep of protest from any *A partner.


No, but it is a privilege as specified in the terms and condition of the frequent flier programs of which I am a member. Therefore I am entitled to lounge access per the terms and conditions of that program. If they choose to change their T&Cs that's cool, but until they do, I'll follow the letter of the rules :) and IMHO the spirit, especially since I'm always allowed lounge access as a foreign *G haha.


Yes, you are entitled to access - and it appears that LH and (for a while) SQ lounges were complying with the terms. My point is that if UA ever decides to care about the loophole (as us having access to these handful of lounges was probably not contemplated when drawing up the rules), it'll be gone. Thus, my view that we shouldn't encourage UA to care about the rules by loudly demanding that they be rigorously enforced and enjoy the unintended benefit quietly for as long as we can :)

The issue of SQ having a *G lounge and not allowing *G flyers on international tickets to use the lounge is a much more direct affront to the overall value proposition of *G status if that attitude is allowed to propagate.

One of those things that we should use discreetly, be glad that the loophole exists, but not be surprised if it is closed. Instead, FTers will do the usual of massively and brazenly exploit it and when the party ends threaten legal action and kick and scream online :rolleyes:

I, for one, am looking forward to the legions of "I filed a DOT complaint" reports. :rolleyes:

I'm sure there are plenty of UA GS & 1K's who fly SQ often enough to get PPS status (which comes w *G), (I know at least 4 others on FT who have this but are w MP. All the mileage is credited to UA so we lose nothing. SQ just keeps track of your spend & these days it's not hard to spend $25,000 on SQ in a year ($S, not US$). I know it sounds funny, if you can afford $25K on tkts Thrn you can for sure afford $350 for the Uclub but some people just bristle at paying UA anything for those clubs, or rarely fly domestic. (if you have *G thru PPS (not regular mileage) you do get admittance to SFO SK club regardless of fare/destination

I am so confused,SQ headquarters says yes, station manager says yes, agent at desk says no but only cause her boss told her no. Now i get two different emails saying yes Star gold are allowed into the lounge in Economy, I will be printing these emails out and will be calling an all out war if she says no again!.

Dear Mr XXX,

Thank you for your enquiry.

A Star Gold member traveling in Economy Class is entitled to our Silver Kris Lounge. If this is not in your reservation record already, please show your membership card at check-in.

Yours sincerely,

xxxx.xxx.xxxx
Customer Services Manager SFO


09/09/2012 12:23 PM

Sender Info:
No Sender Info found in the address Book

"ok so what is the policy on entering the lounge at SFO? This is for a Star Gold member traveling in Economy class outbound."

I am so confused,SQ headquarters says yes, station manager says yes, agent at desk says no but only cause her boss told her no. Now i get two different emails saying yes Star gold are allowed into the lounge in Economy, I will be printing these emails out and will be calling an all out war if she says no again!.

Dear Mr XXX,

Thank you for your enquiry.

A Star Gold member traveling in Economy Class is entitled to our Silver Kris Lounge. If this is not in your reservation record already, please show your membership card at check-in.

Yours sincerely,

xxxx.xxx.xxxx
Customer Services Manager SFO


09/09/2012 12:23 PM

Sender Info:
No Sender Info found in the address Book

"ok so what is the policy on entering the lounge at SFO? This is for a Star Gold member traveling in Economy class outbound."

Believe me or not - they don't know what they are talking about.

But showing that email will definitely help you to get in.

Hello. On Sept 18th I flew out of SFO in SQ-Y cabin. At the *G check-in I asked if I needed a lounge invitation and they stated no. When I went to the lounge I was admitted with my *A Gold card - no issues.

Do note however, there is no *A Gold sign on the door of the lounge so the lounge is not open to other *G members, the lounge agent stated it's only for passengers flying with SQ (I imagine they have some discretion but that's what I was told by that particular agent).

Also, the chicken noodles were quite nice! :)

Do note however, there is no *A Gold sign on the door of the lounge ....



I don't think anyone has stated that there was a *G sign at the door. Of that there is full agreement. Was there a *G sign on the counter?

I do not recall seeing a *G sign on the counter...

I currently do not have *G status but was able to access the SKL in SFO during the past 2 weeks on 2 separate occasions:

1) LH F SFO-FRA
2) AC J SFO-YVR (the evening flight departs from the G concourse)

Got into the SKL at SFO on Thursday, *G flying SFO --> HKG on UA Y.

The lady working the counter wrote down my BP information and handed me the Wi-Fi info :)

doesn't SFO have a UA lounge? why do you have to use the SQ lounge?

doesn't SFO have a UA lounge? why do you have to use the SQ lounge?

After 20 hours of flying from SIN, I'd like to have a shower during my layover connecting to YVR, and since Arrivals by United is only for paid J and F, there is either the SQ lounge or a pay per shower facility in the Intl Terminal.

After 20 hours of flying from SIN, I'd like to have a shower during my layover connecting to YVR, and since Arrivals by United is only for paid J and F, there is either the SQ lounge or a pay per shower facility in the Intl Terminal.

I would be shocked if they denied you entry to the UA RCC if you have a connecting itinerary and you arrived in J or F regardless of whether or was a paid or award ticket. United doesn't make that distinction -- all they care about is Domestic or Int'l + Class of Service / Foreign *G or not. Even if they won't let you in on the basis of your ticket you can pay on the spot a few bucks and they'll let you right on in.

I was admitted last week with a domestic UA boarding pass in Y and my TG *G card. Maybe she just saw the TG card and figured I was flying international, or maybe they just don't want to honor *G status with domestic carriers. My flight did depart from the international terminal, but was definitely just a domestic flight.

After 20 hours of flying from SIN, I'd like to have a shower during my layover connecting to YVR, and since Arrivals by United is only for paid J and F, there is either the SQ lounge or a pay per shower facility in the Intl Terminal.

I would be shocked if they denied you entry to the UA RCC if you have a connecting itinerary and you arrived in J or F regardless of whether or was a paid or award ticket. United doesn't make that distinction -- all they care about is Domestic or Int'l + Class of Service / Foreign *G or not. Even if they won't let you in on the basis of your ticket you can pay on the spot a few bucks and they'll let you right on in.


I believe a shower was the poster's issue, not entry... SFO RCC shower would be not so private and might annoy other lounge patrons

No issues using the SKL in SFO yesterday on an UA international C flight.

Despite what others have stated, there is most certainly NO *G signage at all - either on/near the door, or on the counter. There is a "Star Alliance" sign with a list of airlines, but no mention of "Star Gold".

No issues using the SKL in SFO yesterday on an UA international C flight.

Despite what others have stated, there is most certainly NO *G signage at all - either on/near the door, or on the counter. There is a "Star Alliance" sign with a list of airlines, but no mention of "Star Gold".


Sitting in SKL at SFO now - UA *G traveling on a UA ticketed and operated Y ticket to Canada (CRJ-200 so no F available) - I presented my boarding pass and *G card to the lady at the front desk - she smiled, said welcome, took a minute to jot down my details in her ledger and waved me in. Very simple, no questions or issues raised.

My other experiences here have been very similar, although I have typically been traveling in Int'l C.

FWIW there is no *G signage anywhere - just the list of Star Alliance carriers on the front desk (as docbert said above).

The SFO SKL is quite small, and arguably inferior to the spacious United Club one floor up. Obviously the food and drink are better, and there's a shower.

I recently flew SQ F from SFO. After hanging out in the SKL for a short spell (no FC section anymore), I took off for the UA Global First lounge. It's the first time I've ever declined an SQ lounge for a UA one, and I was a little worried UA wouldn't let me in! But they did.

I was glad I'd moved on. The food and drink offerings have definitely been upgraded since my last visit. Food covers a huge gamut including cold roast beef and poached salmon, various sushi, aram sandwiches, soup, many desserts etc. There was a very large selection of beverages, far superior to the SKL. Spacious showers, and plenty of room. Plus, very close to the SQ boarding gate.

I suggest all SQ F passengers make a beeline for the UA lounge.

The SFO SKL is quite small, and arguably inferior to the spacious United Club one floor up. Obviously the food and drink are better, and there's a shower.

I recently flew SQ F from SFO. After hanging out in the SKL for a short spell (no FC section anymore), I took off for the UA Global First lounge. It's the first time I've ever declined an SQ lounge for a UA one, and I was a little worried UA wouldn't let me in! But they did.

I was glad I'd moved on. The food and drink offerings have definitely been upgraded since my last visit. Food covers a huge gamut including cold roast beef and poached salmon, various sushi, aram sandwiches, soup, many desserts etc. There was a very large selection of beverages, far superior to the SKL. Spacious showers, and plenty of room. Plus, very close to the SQ boarding gate.

I suggest all SQ F passengers make a beeline for the UA lounge.

Personally I find the UA lounge quite lame. Remember it's supposed to be an F lounge and yet there's no hot food? And the roast beef you refer to was cold chunks of roast beef with a side of nothing served on a bed of wilted lettuce :p Yeah it's larger, yeah it's quieter, but there's no service and no hot food. Yeah I suppose you should go take a look as a F pax but it's really half-hearted. Better than JFK but that's really not saying much.

Personally I find the UA lounge quite lame. Remember it's supposed to be an F lounge and yet there's no hot food? And the roast beef you refer to was cold chunks of roast beef with a side of nothing served on a bed of wilted lettuce :p Yeah it's larger, yeah it's quieter, but there's no service and no hot food. Yeah I suppose you should go take a look as a F pax but it's really half-hearted. Better than JFK but that's really not saying much.

Actually there are plenty of sides for the meat and fish - quite an array of vegetables, rice, spreads. Hot food is only desirable if it's quality hot food, not little fried things and salty cups-o-noodle like you get in the SKL. I noticed their very limited offerings hadn't been replenished in awhile and were pretty unappetizing. The "hot" food was no longer hot. The crush of passengers (including perhaps, *G traveling economy) made finding a seat difficult.

No, I'm not going out of my way to use the SKL closet in future, except as a quick pit stop.

I was admitted last week with a domestic UA boarding pass in Y and my TG *G card. Maybe she just saw the TG card and figured I was flying international, or maybe they just don't want to honor *G status with domestic carriers. My flight did depart from the international terminal, but was definitely just a domestic flight.

Same experience today with my TK*G card.

The lady started to look confusedly at me when she saw the destination was Newark. I quickly said, "I'm in F" (thankfully my upgrade had cleared), and she nodded her head and invited me in :)

Annoyingly, the WiFi doesn't work with my Mac - I had to use the UA club's WiFi instead.

Same experience today with my TK*G card.

The lady started to look confusedly at me when she saw the destination was Newark. I quickly said, "I'm in F" (thankfully my upgrade had cleared), and she nodded her head and invited me in :)

Annoyingly, the WiFi doesn't work with my Mac - I had to use the UA club's WiFi instead.

yeah she seems to be lenient if you have anything other than UA or US.

yeah she seems to be lenient if you have anything other than UA or US.

Because, as per the Star Alliance rules... all the other Gold members get lounge access before EVERY flight (not just Int'l).

Visited the KRis lounge yesterday traveling UA Y. *G was welcome without hesitation. I enjoyed the hot food. A quite retreat compared to the crowded, culinary desert of the UA lounge upstairs.

Flying first on UA SFO to PEK. No status. Will I be able to get into Sing's lounge? Time to kill and hoped to venture in.

Yes. Also look at this thread http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/united-mileageplus-consolidated/1372527-1k-denied-entry-outgoing-intl-pax-sq-silverkris-lounge-sfo-ua-traveller-access-8.html Post #109 onwards.

Yes. ....maybe not, depending on time of day

recent post from http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/united-mileage-plus-pre-merger/1165994-new-policy-2011-skl-access-sfo-permanently-denied-g-domestic.html

Just a heads up -- I am sitting in the SKL about to board SQ1 to HKG.

There is a note posted at checkin and at the lounge entrance stating from Dec 28 to March 24 at night, the SFO SKL will ONLY be open to pax in SQ Suites and Business class; the stated reason due to fire codes.

I assume this is due to the A380 being used on this route and the increased pax numbers.

So if SQ ever brings the A380 year around and/or for the daytime flight, the days of SKL access by UA, etc. pax may be numbered.

Flying first on UA SFO to PEK. No status. Will I be able to get into Sing's lounge? Time to kill and hoped to venture in.

Unless there are updates to the food offerings, the SFO SQ lounge is not worth it and you are better off in the UA Global First lounge.

Unless there are updates to the food offerings, the SFO SQ lounge is not worth it and you are better off in the UA Global First lounge.

Agreed. I was disappointed with the food choices when I visited in May. Had we been in F on the flight down to SYD, we would have gone to the IFL. Much better food there, plus it's closer to the evening intl flights.

maybe not, depending on time of day

recent post from http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/united-mileage-plus-pre-merger/1165994-new-policy-2011-skl-access-sfo-permanently-denied-g-domestic.html

That change to SQ's access policy should only affect the evening hours. United's SFO-PEK flight is around noon when the SKL should still be accepting international star alliance passengers in premium cabins

That change to SQ's access policy should only affect the evening hours. United's SFO-PEK flight is around noon when the SKL should still be accepting international star alliance passengers in premium cabins

So if we're flying J on UA (SFO-KIX) will we be granted access to the SQ lounge?

So if we're flying J on UA (SFO-KIX) will we be granted access to the SQ lounge?
I just was.

FWIW, just flew out of SFO in Y as *G on SQ001. There's a sign at the check-in counter that explicitly states that *G members are no longer allowed into SKL unless they are flying in J & F. It's explanation being that the number of eligible entrants can exceed the fire code (actual code # referenced). Some validity, but still a bit of BS.

So if we're flying J on UA (SFO-KIX) will we be granted access to the SQ lounge?

That's correct. The change does not cover most of United's transpacific flights since they are midday.

Unless there are updates to the food offerings, the SFO SQ lounge is not worth it and you are better off in the UA Global First lounge.

UA IFL > SKL >> UC. The math is pretty simple, really. The UC is crowded and pathetic in every way (unless you like sitting at the bar), the SKL is a fine place overall, and the IFL is pretty nice and superior to both others.

I (1k) used the Silverkris lounge late november, traveling UA Y international. i Specifically asked if was ok with my details and was told i was very welcome. Much nicer lounge that the UA desert upstairs.

I arrive 11:36AM from UA C ICN-SFO, and have a flight out UA SFO-YEG at 7:30PM :(.

What time will it be when I'm done clearing immigrations and to the UA Arrivals or Silverkris lounge? I'm assuming the UA Arrivals will be closed by than and I should use the SK lounge?

I know I'll have to go to the United club after 2:30pm from the SK lounge but I really want a shower..

Just got shot down. After reading the sign, tried anyways and the dragon mentioned due to high volumes with the A380, *G are being redirected to UC for the next three months, oh well!

Just got shot down. ...what time of day?
Were you on an international itin?

what time of day?
Were you on an international itin?

Domestic. They didn't even bother checking my boarding pass. I was just flashing my UA Gold Card (still waiting for Plat to get mailed in).

Domestic. ...domestic UA Gold has been a no go long before the A380 crowding issue.

Mother ual744777sta was just denied access arriving from PVG connecting to SNA in F. Should I follow up with SQ?

Mother ual744777sta was just denied access arriving from PVG connecting to SNA in F. Should I follow up with SQ?
Does your mother have Star Gold status? If not, then she was correctly denied, as stupid as that seems. She should have been welcomed in the UA Global First Lounge, though the rule is a bit fuzzy there.

For those Star God travelers turned away from the SQ SFO lounge, you should complain to Star Alliance, as technically (despite them taking down the sign), it is still a Star Alliance gold lounge...

For those Star God travelers turned away from the SQ SFO lounge, you should complain to Star Alliance, as technically (despite them taking down the sign), it is still a Star Alliance gold lounge...

Bolding mine.

Is there a yet-unreleased new Star Alliance elite level? Details please Matthew!:D

I'm on the noon SFO-NRT tomorrow in Y, going to see if I will get shot down at the SKL.

Yes, she's a UA Premier Gold.

Using *A lounge finder will save you time and frustration of denied access. It's not rocket science.

Does your mother have Star Gold status? If not, then she was correctly denied, as stupid as that seems. She should have been welcomed in the UA Global First Lounge, though the rule is a bit fuzzy there.

OP didn't mention if his mother arriving PVG on int'l F or not, only mentioned connecting to SNA in F. If that is the case, no UA GFL access at all, only for UC.


Mother ual744777sta was just denied access arriving from PVG connecting to SNA in F. Should I follow up with SQ?

No, base on domestic F boarding pass (especially with UA*G), you are not suppose to get in any lounges, you have to be departing international *A (like if your mother's routing is in reverse) in order to have a case.

http://www.staralliance.com/en/benefits/status-benefits/lounge-access-policy/

United and US Airways Star Alliance Gold customers may only access the United Clubs and US Airways Clubs within the U.S. when travelling in conjunction with a Star Alliance international flight

United and US Airways Star Alliance Gold customers may only access the United Clubs and US Airways Clubs within the U.S. when travelling in conjunction with a Star Alliance international flight

The flight in question was most certainly in conjunction with a *A international flight.

You might want to look up the meaning of conjunction and I'll give you a hint, it doesn't specify before or after.

Now, and this is important, there might be other verbiage on the link you posted which would exclude the pax in question. I'm too lazy to look.