Originally Posted by number_6
The original plan was 1 lounge covering the entire floor (getting rid of the rabbit's warren corridors in TBIT). If the announcement is literally true, it does mean that LAN will not be part of this "oneworld" lounge. Or maybe LA will be switching to T4 (somehow I doubt that, but it could happen I suppose)? EI isn't mentioned either (and it is part of OW into 2007, ie. after this lounge is opened). Another possibility is that the funding for the lounge rebuild is coming from QF/CX/BA and the other OW airlines are getting a free ride on the construction costs (but not on the operating costs).
The OW lounge access rules for status aren't changing, so any lounge can be accessed by status (subject to capacity controls). Now TBIT is often invoking capacity control and refusing access -- even for pax flying the same airline, much less a different OW airline (ie. cannot get into the QF lounge when flying QF). The rebuilt lounge is supposed to triple capacity, with better use of floor space (more lounge and less corridors).
Here is what Qantas posted today on the subject.......
From mid-2007, members with access to The Qantas Club can enjoy a new lounge experience in Los Angeles. Qantas, in partnership with Cathay Pacific and British Airways, is developing new First and Business lounges in the Tom Bradley International terminal. The new lounges will offer more space, more seating, luxury shower suites and enhanced business facilities.
From September 2006, interim lounge facilities will be available while the new lounges are under construction. The interim lounge will be outside the terminal and a shuttle will transport members to the lounge. Facilities will include seating for 500, complimentary refreshments, internet access,
TV, newspapers and magazines.
Given the pigsty currently offered, anything will be better
When coming in from anywhere else to transit, I try to arrive in T4, use the lounge there, then come over to TB at the last minute (make that last hour, given the slow queues through customs there)