Lounge Review: LHR American Airlines Arrivals Lounge
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In November I used the AA Arrivals lounge at LHR for only the second time, 5 years after I last used it. I was impressed the first time, and I remain impressed this time around.
The lounge is located on the mezzanine level above the main landside arrivals hall at T3, and can be accessed by lifts or stairs just beyond the hotel information desk. From reception, turning right will take you to the showers, whilst turning left will take you to the main lounge area.
I headed first to the showers; I was escorted to my allocated room, which was well appointed with a spacious and powerful walk-in shower, and Prija amenities. I hadn't come across the Prija brand before, but liked the aroma. The fit-out of these showers is a world away from the plastic interiors of the BA Galleries Arrivals lounge over at T5. Everything one could want to refresh is provided, including a valet ironing option via the double door arrangement, although I'm always slightly suspicious that the interior door will open mid-shower! The only complaint I have is relating to the weak wall-mounted hairdryer; a proper hairdryer should be provided, as AA manage to do in their Flagship lounges in the US.
The main lounge area is comprised of a central seating area of comfortable and stylish leather armchairs, with a buffet arranged along the left hand wall and a number of dining tables dotted around the perimeter walls. Two secondary alcoves to the right hand side provide firstly additional dining and high-top table seating, and secondly a quiet seating area with more armchairs and a few workstations. Washrooms are available at the far end of the lounge, adjacent to the kitchen. The overall interior design matches that of AA's Flagship lounges, and is of generally high quality, if not overly luxurious. Despite last being refurbished in 2016, the lounge still feels fresh.
Service in the lounge was prompt, and I was asked for my breakfast order as soon as I sat down. AA offer a small à la carte menu of breakfast and lunch options (all available throughout the lounge's opening hours), together with a nicely presented buffet featuring cereals, yogurt, whole and cut fruit, meat, cheese, pastries, sweets and a variety of traditional hot options. My egg florentine was hot and of very respectable quality. Moët champagne is available.
AA have a great facility in their LHR Arrivals lounge. It's a practical and stylish space, with everything done well to serve the needs of the transatlantic business traveller.