Once you've been in a VS Clubhouse you are spoiled for life. Nothing comes close - not even the F lounge at Frankfurt, although that does come with a Mercedes ride to the plane!

I note from the FT today that VS will have full drive-through check-in for all Upper Class passengers at LHR from December - although its not clear if it will also have a private security line.

DRIVER-THROUGH CHECK-IN FOR VIRGIN FIRST CLASS PASSENGERS
30 May 2007
Press Association National Newswire
(c)2007, The Press Association, All Rights Reserved

By Peter Woodman, PA Air Correspondent

Plans to provide a drive-through airport check-in area for first class passengers were unveiled today by Sir Richard Branson's airline Virgin Atlantic.

The new facility, designed by leading architects Foster and Partners, will be in place at Heathrow airport's Terminal 3 by the end of the year, Virgin said.

Passengers with tickets in Virgin's Upper Class (first class) section will be taken in their chauffeur-driven cars up a curved ramp on to a 22m-wide arrival area, in the heart of the terminal building, where they will be welcomed by a special Virgin Atlantic host.

Virgin Atlantic said: 'All the check-in formalities will be completed in the car before the passengers arrive, so all that is left to do is check travel documents and answer security questions before walking through the hotel style lobby. From here it will be a short walk to security and through to the (Virgin) clubhouse, and then on to the gate.''

The rest of Virgin passengers will be using a new check-in area at Terminal 3 (T3) with Virgin hoping the facilities will surpass those of rival British Airways, which moves into the new Terminal 5 at Heathrow in March 2008.

Virgin Atlantic chief executive Steve Ridgway said today: 'The new T3 will provide a unique Virgin experience for our passengers.

'From check-in through to their departure gate, they will have a fast, efficient and stress free journey, which will relax them for the start of their trip and save them precious time at the airport.''