Originally Posted by jackiedada

Not true.

The JFK lounge is open pretty much all day. If you are flying F or J, or are a Plat/ Gold, then EK has a separate counter open where you can check in, get your BP, and head straight to the lounge. I've checked in as early as 2:30 pm for the 11:00 pm departure. I've been doing that for the past several years when I used to be in the lounge between 5pm-6 pm after finishing my meetings in NYC. However, just to throw some caution, I've not flown 202 for the last several months, mainly because I now prefer 204 as it helps me tackle jet lag better, so things may have changed but I really doubt it.