HFHFFlyer

Four and a half years on, and with the post pandemic travel sugar rush fading, I’d be fascinated to know how regulars’ thoughts have changed.

My own view remains that the S lounges need huge improvements, with GF in particular needing an increased footprint and overall a much more sensible and intelligent allocation of space…..

TWCLAM

Does anyone know what's going in the old spa area? I asked the shower ladies positing that it's probably not a new spa but they were clueless as to what was "arriving soon" ( allegedly).

Having used E-Gates at TIA on Friday and have passed through in mere seconds I'm refreshed in my desire to see those at T5 ( tbh most UK airports) burnt with those responsible for design, procurement and implementation placed atop so as to serve as a warning to those looking to step into their shoes.

Whilst making clear that having, legally speaking, left the EU I have no problem if individual member states want to choose to push Brits through the 'other' lanes or queues but it might be nice if our own lot did the same. I'll happily wait my turn wherever I arrive but if a country opts to take that approach towards UK travellers I don't see why I should stand in a queue of 400 upon return when reciprocity should see those who, legitimately as it may be, took an exclusionary approach towards the Brits waiting in the matching line as I pass through sans Disney Queue.

As with others the use of the lounge space hasn't kept up with the times, even factoring in the coof times. Changes in numbers, demographics and societal shifts inevitably date a location & find some factors failing to meet demand whislt others over dominate the spaces. It's a shame the, reasonably, dynamic and proactive lounge reorientations ( in space, service levels and provision) that was allowed to blossom during the maddening years has been forgotten or suppressed

scubadu

Honestly, I see very little evidence that the "post pandemic travel sugar rush" is fading.

Second, yes, T5 GF lounge is just an embarrassment for a OWE/First lounge and at carriers primary hub...

Regards

USA_flyer

It would be good to have scanners that don't require liquids, laptops etc to be separated. I want to drop my backpack and coat into a tray and head for the body scanner.

I know they're coming, the sooner the better.

It would also be good to have a third party lounge that wasn't the size of a broom closet.

Bohinjska Bistrica

This isn't allowed out of niceness, it's a necessity to stop persistently bad queues by sending every EU national to an Officer. The whole set up would fall down as there aren't enough Officers to cope, which would then knock on to any UK nationals that can't use the egates (e.g. travelling with young children).

We should be able to use the EU egates again when ETIAS comes in.

Anyway...I think some refurbishment of the lounges is in order, particularly the toilets in Gallaries North.

Bohinjska Bistrica

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KARFA

indeed. It’s a shame that some EU countries seem less bothered about whether you are queuing on entry tho and don’t take a similarly pragmatic approach. But yes I don’t think we should be vindictive in response and stop allowing eu passport holders access to e gates.

yes it should be back to e gates and no stamps once ETIAS/EES starts, but it’s been delayed several times already so I am not holding my breadth for 2024.

crazy8534

Although excellent recent experiences in CDG with being able to use their e-gates. Not sure if other French airports can offer the same service yet. I am a strong believer in “do unto others that which you would wish to be done unto you” so definitely agree with having as many nationalities as feasible able to use the UK entry e-gates.

It is funny to think, though, of the experience of the average US citizen arriving in the UK compared with the converse (i.e. non-GE).