Jan 5, 2024, 11:41 am
Last edit by: Prospero
For the latest updates and discussion related to the champagnes on offer, please visit the sister thread linked below
JFK Chelsea Lounge | la mise à jour du champagne
JFK Chelsea Lounge | la mise à jour du champagne
British Airways and American Airlines Chelsea Lounge - JFK Terminal 8
Dec 16, 2022, 9:24 am
#317
Moderator: Hyatt Gold Passport & Star Alliance
Join Date: May 1998
Location: London, UK
Programs: UA-1K 3MM/HY- LT Globalist/BA-GGL/GfL
Posts: 12,093
They see Emerald and that gets one lounge. I presume the pop up when they scan the Boarding Pass doesn't have Class of Service, so that it comes later on the screen.
Next time I get in I might ask to look at the display!
Dec 16, 2022, 1:15 pm
#318
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: NYC
Programs: AA EXP
Posts: 1,372
That's not really an excuse, either, as BA F had actually allowed access to FFD for a number of months now. It's shocking because out of all the AA hubs with Flagship Lounges and FFD, the JFK crew were some of the best when it came to understanding all of the nuances and permutations of access, even when connecting to Flagship First at another hub on a separate ticket.
Dec 16, 2022, 1:47 pm
#319
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: LHR / LAS
Programs: BA GfL, GGL/CCR
Posts: 2,409
Last time in the CCR in T7 we had was mid November..
The GGL special services lady, whom I'm sure some of you know (she's moved over to T8) did comment, somewhat in jest, about access and subsequent complications with the upcoming move.
Seems to have come true!
The GGL special services lady, whom I'm sure some of you know (she's moved over to T8) did comment, somewhat in jest, about access and subsequent complications with the upcoming move.
Seems to have come true!
Dec 16, 2022, 3:50 pm
#320
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: NYC
Posts: 27,240
I understand complications related to CK/GGL access on non-F itineraries, given it seems AA and BA may not even be aligned.
Dec 16, 2022, 5:10 pm
#321
Join Date: Mar 2017
Programs: BA GGL, GfL, Hilton Diamond, Hyatt Lifetime Globalist, AllAccor Diamond, Marriott Ambassador Elite
Posts: 1,042
Wow - so you are really contemplating switching airline due to the lounge situation? Don't get me wrong - the Chelsea lounge sounds a complete and unacceptable mess, particularly compared with the JFK CCR. Vociferous complaints to BA are absolutely in order. But looking in from afar, it strikes me that the return lounge is only one fairly small element of the overall experience imo. You do of course get the CCR on the outbound from London and Soho sounds ok for the return at a pinch. Personally given the choice I'd go BA F over VS for numerous reasons, despite their very nice lounges (of which I am a fan).
Hopefully your voting with your feet will help encourage BA to improve Chelsea by the time I go in and out of JFK in F in April :-)
Hopefully your voting with your feet will help encourage BA to improve Chelsea by the time I go in and out of JFK in F in April :-)
Dec 16, 2022, 5:26 pm
#322
Join Date: Nov 2011
Location: Boston, MA
Programs: AA 1MM CK, DL Plat, Hilton Diamond, Bonvoy Ambassador (RIP SPG), BAEC Gold
Posts: 1,172
That's not really an excuse, either, as BA F had actually allowed access to FFD for a number of months now. It's shocking because out of all the AA hubs with Flagship Lounges and FFD, the JFK crew were some of the best when it came to understanding all of the nuances and permutations of access, even when connecting to Flagship First at another hub on a separate ticket.
I’m departing out of JFK on Tuesday (flagship route is not from JFK) and I’m fully expecting access pushback at check in.
Dec 16, 2022, 6:47 pm
#323
Suspended
Join Date: Dec 2022
Location: London
Posts: 28
I’m sorry to say that the Chelsea Lounge is not the least bit attractive when compared to the Soho Lounge next door.
I’m about to take off so my comments are rushed, but my summary is as follows (which is based on tonight only, perhaps it will be better in time though some comments are more than linked to ‘teething problems’):
1. We waited to be assigned a table for 10 minutes and three different members of staff (some who looked like management) said they would come back and seat us, but they never did. Eventually we just went and got ourselves a table.
2. the only hot food available was not even on the menu: a burger.
3. the staff were apologetic but they couldn’t even get the starter orders right. Several of the wrong starters were delivered to our table. They didn’t seem bothered that they got it wrong and didn’t bother asking us what we had ordered.
4. We ordered Krug and 3 waters. 15 minutes later another member of staff came back and said the Krug was warm. They suggested a different champagne and it was delivered in a mix of wine and champagne glasses, and this champagne was also warm. We never got our waters. So much for the lounge that prided itself in being champagne-focused!
5. another waitress came over and took over the service. She was worked off her feet, said she cried after the first night’s work because she was run ragged with no help. And she did a fantastic job. She said that they were severely understaffed and apologised when she didn’t need to for other’s failings. She did well to do her best given the circumstances, so credit to her.
6. The lounge space isn’t relaxing. It’s incredibly bright, with people running around. It lacks privacy, calmness and exclusivity. And it feels very cramped for an F-ticket lounge. In comparison the Soho lounge (OWE / BA Gold) was dimly lit - though busy - open and airy and most importantly it had a view of the tarmac. It really was quite a shocking contrast. Soho fit the Soho I know and love at home in London, it’s actually quite an authentic representation. From the lighting, to the colours and textures through to the music. Chelsea felt like a rich kid who doesn’t know how to be classy!
One of the guys who’s normally at the CCR reception recognised me (which was nice of course) and suggested that frequent visitors to CCR raise some constructive feedback with BA, and he was very embarrassed with the AA/Sodexo outfit, saying that this was several times less ‘premium’ than Flagship Dining in T8 and miles behind JFK CCR. Apparently some conversations are being had within BA..
Anyway, until this settles down AND the menus improve (I don’t think the menu is akin to CCR level and Soho next door has much much much more choice!!) I would recommend the Soho lounge for any GGLs / Prem / F considering Chelsea.
Soho was fantastic, easily BA’s best Gold lounge. Decent food (with quite a bit of choice on the buffet, though granted the QR code ordering doesn’t work), good cocktails and local beers on tap, lovely space and of course tarmac views!
I’m about to take off so my comments are rushed, but my summary is as follows (which is based on tonight only, perhaps it will be better in time though some comments are more than linked to ‘teething problems’):
1. We waited to be assigned a table for 10 minutes and three different members of staff (some who looked like management) said they would come back and seat us, but they never did. Eventually we just went and got ourselves a table.
2. the only hot food available was not even on the menu: a burger.
3. the staff were apologetic but they couldn’t even get the starter orders right. Several of the wrong starters were delivered to our table. They didn’t seem bothered that they got it wrong and didn’t bother asking us what we had ordered.
4. We ordered Krug and 3 waters. 15 minutes later another member of staff came back and said the Krug was warm. They suggested a different champagne and it was delivered in a mix of wine and champagne glasses, and this champagne was also warm. We never got our waters. So much for the lounge that prided itself in being champagne-focused!
5. another waitress came over and took over the service. She was worked off her feet, said she cried after the first night’s work because she was run ragged with no help. And she did a fantastic job. She said that they were severely understaffed and apologised when she didn’t need to for other’s failings. She did well to do her best given the circumstances, so credit to her.
6. The lounge space isn’t relaxing. It’s incredibly bright, with people running around. It lacks privacy, calmness and exclusivity. And it feels very cramped for an F-ticket lounge. In comparison the Soho lounge (OWE / BA Gold) was dimly lit - though busy - open and airy and most importantly it had a view of the tarmac. It really was quite a shocking contrast. Soho fit the Soho I know and love at home in London, it’s actually quite an authentic representation. From the lighting, to the colours and textures through to the music. Chelsea felt like a rich kid who doesn’t know how to be classy!
One of the guys who’s normally at the CCR reception recognised me (which was nice of course) and suggested that frequent visitors to CCR raise some constructive feedback with BA, and he was very embarrassed with the AA/Sodexo outfit, saying that this was several times less ‘premium’ than Flagship Dining in T8 and miles behind JFK CCR. Apparently some conversations are being had within BA..
Anyway, until this settles down AND the menus improve (I don’t think the menu is akin to CCR level and Soho next door has much much much more choice!!) I would recommend the Soho lounge for any GGLs / Prem / F considering Chelsea.
Soho was fantastic, easily BA’s best Gold lounge. Decent food (with quite a bit of choice on the buffet, though granted the QR code ordering doesn’t work), good cocktails and local beers on tap, lovely space and of course tarmac views!
Dec 16, 2022, 9:07 pm
#324
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Nov 2018
Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Programs: TK Elite Plus,BAEC GGL,ITA Executive, AFKL Gold,QR Gold,HH Diamond,Bonvoy Gold,ALL Gold
Posts: 14,186
So folks, I would share two completely different experiences that I had in the last few days with the Chelsea Lounge flying on a solely domestic AA itinerary as a GGL.
Occasion #1
When I have arrived at the Chelsea Lounge with my boarding pass, there was one AA agent and two BA agents ( with one having a Concorde Team name tag ), they were confused as when they scan my boarding pass, AA couldn't see my GGL status ( not surprised ) and BA couldn't check me in either. I had my physical GGL card present and there was a sheet that showed who was eligible and on that sheet it was written "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest" so me and my guest was admitted. However, a few minutes later the Concorde Team agent approached me and told that on domestic itineraries, next time I would be admitted to the Soho Lounge and I could only use the Chelsea Lounge on international itineraries. However, we were allowed to stay at the lounge for the day.
While exiting the lounge, there were two BA supervisors at the exit and I have asked them about the confusion.
Here is what I was told:
Occasion #2
4 days later from the first occasion, I was flying another AA domestic flight out of JFK. When I went up the elevators, a different AA agent was at the podium at Chelsea, I showed my boarding pass and physical card, and despite that there was the same entry sheet on the table that had the wording "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest", I was told that I could use the Soho Lounge and was escorted there. While being escorted to the Soho Lounge, I asked if there was a change in rules, she was unable to comment and told me that I need to fly "international" to access the Chelsea Lounge as a GGL. The agent was professional, was calm, friendly and not in defensive mode.
A few minutes later, I have pulled up the GGL page ( https://www.britishairways.com/en-us...-list-benefits ), see ss below on what I shared below, there were different AA agents and two BA agents on site, and I was told by both the BA and AA agent despite the website wording that I would need to fly "international" to use the Chelsea Lounge. The BA agents on duty were different BA agents which was not on duty when I visited the Chelsea Lounge on occasion #1 and the BA supervisors were different people.
I also specifically asked that if Flagship domestic routes in Economy/Business qualify for Chelsea Lounge access as a GGL, they told me international only. There was no clarification if I was going to be admitted if I was traveling to Canada, The Caribbean or Mexico with AA, however, the response on post #281 by the GGL team says AA/BA long-haul only.
Screenshot:
* According to post #281, this page was going to be updated but it didn't get updated for at least 72 hours, even the GGL team ( at least one of the agents ) are aware of the issue.
So, in general, it is sad that if this is the case AA ConciergeKey has more advantage over BA Gold Guest List, as they could access the lounge when they are flying from to LAX, SFO and SNA in Economy or Flagship Business as well while BA GGL's only have access when flying Flagship First ( on the basis that they are flying Flagship First ).
I haven't asked about how it would work on an international connecting itinerary but it is possible to see different interpretations from different agents.
I'll admit that the Soho Lounge is still a decent lounge and an upgrade over the old Flagship Business Lounge in terms of seating/comfort, food, beverages, and atmosphere.
I would be honest that, I wouldn't be annoyed if I was sent to the Soho Lounge rather than the Chelsea Lounge on domestic itinearies, however, I wish that BA updates their website with consistent as accurate information for GGL members. Also, even though I don't have any personal experience, GGL members could have accessed the CCR when flying Alaska or American domestic ( if they cleared security twice ) ( from experiences of GGL member friends that I know personally ) so BA hasn't kept their promise of reciprocal access to the CCR which they responded to GGL's when they asked clarification before the lounges open.
I would be sharing mini reports of both lounges in a subsequent post in the upcoming hours.
Occasion #1
When I have arrived at the Chelsea Lounge with my boarding pass, there was one AA agent and two BA agents ( with one having a Concorde Team name tag ), they were confused as when they scan my boarding pass, AA couldn't see my GGL status ( not surprised ) and BA couldn't check me in either. I had my physical GGL card present and there was a sheet that showed who was eligible and on that sheet it was written "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest" so me and my guest was admitted. However, a few minutes later the Concorde Team agent approached me and told that on domestic itineraries, next time I would be admitted to the Soho Lounge and I could only use the Chelsea Lounge on international itineraries. However, we were allowed to stay at the lounge for the day.
While exiting the lounge, there were two BA supervisors at the exit and I have asked them about the confusion.
Here is what I was told:
- AA and BA has contradicting ideas about letting in GGL's on non-Flagship routes; BA would like to have the same access rules as CCR ( all OW flights ) and AA wants to restrict on Flagship routes - By them, I was told that any BA/AA flight should be eligible ( despite the route ) and to approach a BA employee if I was denied entry.
- London and Dallas ( BA & AA HQ's ) are still working on a mutual agreement at this stage and I was apologized for any confusion that might have occured earlier during the day. They have also told me that this lounge is a joint lounge operated by both BA and AA.
- When I told that his colleague from BA told me that we are not eligible and he made an exception and told us next time we need to go to the Soho Lounge, the two BA supervisors claimed that it is what AA is asking BA to tell BA GGL's.
Occasion #2
4 days later from the first occasion, I was flying another AA domestic flight out of JFK. When I went up the elevators, a different AA agent was at the podium at Chelsea, I showed my boarding pass and physical card, and despite that there was the same entry sheet on the table that had the wording "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest", I was told that I could use the Soho Lounge and was escorted there. While being escorted to the Soho Lounge, I asked if there was a change in rules, she was unable to comment and told me that I need to fly "international" to access the Chelsea Lounge as a GGL. The agent was professional, was calm, friendly and not in defensive mode.
A few minutes later, I have pulled up the GGL page ( https://www.britishairways.com/en-us...-list-benefits ), see ss below on what I shared below, there were different AA agents and two BA agents on site, and I was told by both the BA and AA agent despite the website wording that I would need to fly "international" to use the Chelsea Lounge. The BA agents on duty were different BA agents which was not on duty when I visited the Chelsea Lounge on occasion #1 and the BA supervisors were different people.
I also specifically asked that if Flagship domestic routes in Economy/Business qualify for Chelsea Lounge access as a GGL, they told me international only. There was no clarification if I was going to be admitted if I was traveling to Canada, The Caribbean or Mexico with AA, however, the response on post #281 by the GGL team says AA/BA long-haul only.
Screenshot:
* According to post #281, this page was going to be updated but it didn't get updated for at least 72 hours, even the GGL team ( at least one of the agents ) are aware of the issue.
So, in general, it is sad that if this is the case AA ConciergeKey has more advantage over BA Gold Guest List, as they could access the lounge when they are flying from to LAX, SFO and SNA in Economy or Flagship Business as well while BA GGL's only have access when flying Flagship First ( on the basis that they are flying Flagship First ).
I haven't asked about how it would work on an international connecting itinerary but it is possible to see different interpretations from different agents.
I'll admit that the Soho Lounge is still a decent lounge and an upgrade over the old Flagship Business Lounge in terms of seating/comfort, food, beverages, and atmosphere.
I would be honest that, I wouldn't be annoyed if I was sent to the Soho Lounge rather than the Chelsea Lounge on domestic itinearies, however, I wish that BA updates their website with consistent as accurate information for GGL members. Also, even though I don't have any personal experience, GGL members could have accessed the CCR when flying Alaska or American domestic ( if they cleared security twice ) ( from experiences of GGL member friends that I know personally ) so BA hasn't kept their promise of reciprocal access to the CCR which they responded to GGL's when they asked clarification before the lounges open.
I would be sharing mini reports of both lounges in a subsequent post in the upcoming hours.
Dec 16, 2022, 9:19 pm
#325
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: BCT. Formerly known as attorney28
Programs: LH HON,BA GGL GfL,Hyatt LT Glob,Mrtt LT P,Hilt LT D,IC Amb,Acc P,GHA Tit,LHW Strlg,Sixt/Av/Hz D/Pres
Posts: 6,827
As long as the BA website states that GGL can get in on any BA or AA flight, I would not accept them not letting me in.
Dec 16, 2022, 9:22 pm
#326
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: LAS/FCO/JFK/LAX
Programs: DL DM/2MM, BA GGL/CCR,/GFL, A3 Gold, JBU Mosaic, ITA Executive, HHonors Diamond
Posts: 305
So folks, I would share two completely different experiences that I had in the last few days with the Chelsea Lounge flying on a solely domestic AA itinerary as a GGL.
Occasion #1
When I have arrived at the Chelsea Lounge with my boarding pass, there was one AA agent and two BA agents ( with one having a Concorde Team name tag ), they were confused as when they scan my boarding pass, AA couldn't see my GGL status ( not surprised ) and BA couldn't check me in either. I had my physical GGL card present and there was a sheet that showed who was eligible and on that sheet it was written "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest" so me and my guest was admitted. However, a few minutes later the Concorde Team agent approached me and told that on domestic itineraries, next time I would be admitted to the Soho Lounge and I could only use the Chelsea Lounge on international itineraries. However, we were allowed to stay at the lounge for the day.
While exiting the lounge, there were two BA supervisors at the exit and I have asked them about the confusion.
Here is what I was told:
Occasion #2
4 days later from the first occasion, I was flying another AA domestic flight out of JFK. When I went up the elevators, a different AA agent was at the podium at Chelsea, I showed my boarding pass and physical card, and despite that there was the same entry sheet on the table that had the wording "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest", I was told that I could use the Soho Lounge and was escorted there. While being escorted to the Soho Lounge, I asked if there was a change in rules, she was unable to comment and told me that I need to fly "international" to access the Chelsea Lounge as a GGL. The agent was professional, was calm, friendly and not in defensive mode.
A few minutes later, I have pulled up the GGL page ( https://www.britishairways.com/en-us...-list-benefits ), see ss below on what I shared below, there were different AA agents and two BA agents on site, and I was told by both the BA and AA agent despite the website wording that I would need to fly "international" to use the Chelsea Lounge. The BA agents on duty were different BA agents which was not on duty when I visited the Chelsea Lounge on occasion #1 and the BA supervisors were different people.
I also specifically asked that if Flagship domestic routes in Economy/Business qualify for Chelsea Lounge access as a GGL, they told me international only. There was no clarification if I was going to be admitted if I was traveling to Canada, The Caribbean or Mexico with AA, however, the response on post #281 by the GGL team says AA/BA long-haul only.
Screenshot:
* According to post #281, this page was going to be updated but it didn't get updated for at least 72 hours, even the GGL team ( at least one of the agents ) are aware of the issue.
So, in general, it is sad that if this is the case AA ConciergeKey has more advantage over BA Gold Guest List, as they could access the lounge when they are flying from to LAX, SFO and SNA in Economy or Flagship Business as well while BA GGL's only have access when flying Flagship First ( on the basis that they are flying Flagship First ).
I haven't asked about how it would work on an international connecting itinerary but it is possible to see different interpretations from different agents.
I'll admit that the Soho Lounge is still a decent lounge and an upgrade over the old Flagship Business Lounge in terms of seating/comfort, food, beverages, and atmosphere.
I would be honest that, I wouldn't be annoyed if I was sent to the Soho Lounge rather than the Chelsea Lounge on domestic itinearies, however, I wish that BA updates their website with consistent as accurate information for GGL members. Also, even though I don't have any personal experience, GGL members could have accessed the CCR when flying Alaska or American domestic ( if they cleared security twice ) ( from experiences of GGL member friends that I know personally ) so BA hasn't kept their promise of reciprocal access to the CCR which they responded to GGL's when they asked clarification before the lounges open.
I would be sharing mini reports of both lounges in a subsequent post in the upcoming hours.
Occasion #1
When I have arrived at the Chelsea Lounge with my boarding pass, there was one AA agent and two BA agents ( with one having a Concorde Team name tag ), they were confused as when they scan my boarding pass, AA couldn't see my GGL status ( not surprised ) and BA couldn't check me in either. I had my physical GGL card present and there was a sheet that showed who was eligible and on that sheet it was written "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest" so me and my guest was admitted. However, a few minutes later the Concorde Team agent approached me and told that on domestic itineraries, next time I would be admitted to the Soho Lounge and I could only use the Chelsea Lounge on international itineraries. However, we were allowed to stay at the lounge for the day.
While exiting the lounge, there were two BA supervisors at the exit and I have asked them about the confusion.
Here is what I was told:
- AA and BA has contradicting ideas about letting in GGL's on non-Flagship routes; BA would like to have the same access rules as CCR ( all OW flights ) and AA wants to restrict on Flagship routes - By them, I was told that any BA/AA flight should be eligible ( despite the route ) and to approach a BA employee if I was denied entry.
- London and Dallas ( BA & AA HQ's ) are still working on a mutual agreement at this stage and I was apologized for any confusion that might have occured earlier during the day. They have also told me that this lounge is a joint lounge operated by both BA and AA.
- When I told that his colleague from BA told me that we are not eligible and he made an exception and told us next time we need to go to the Soho Lounge, the two BA supervisors claimed that it is what AA is asking BA to tell BA GGL's.
Occasion #2
4 days later from the first occasion, I was flying another AA domestic flight out of JFK. When I went up the elevators, a different AA agent was at the podium at Chelsea, I showed my boarding pass and physical card, and despite that there was the same entry sheet on the table that had the wording "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest", I was told that I could use the Soho Lounge and was escorted there. While being escorted to the Soho Lounge, I asked if there was a change in rules, she was unable to comment and told me that I need to fly "international" to access the Chelsea Lounge as a GGL. The agent was professional, was calm, friendly and not in defensive mode.
A few minutes later, I have pulled up the GGL page ( https://www.britishairways.com/en-us...-list-benefits ), see ss below on what I shared below, there were different AA agents and two BA agents on site, and I was told by both the BA and AA agent despite the website wording that I would need to fly "international" to use the Chelsea Lounge. The BA agents on duty were different BA agents which was not on duty when I visited the Chelsea Lounge on occasion #1 and the BA supervisors were different people.
I also specifically asked that if Flagship domestic routes in Economy/Business qualify for Chelsea Lounge access as a GGL, they told me international only. There was no clarification if I was going to be admitted if I was traveling to Canada, The Caribbean or Mexico with AA, however, the response on post #281 by the GGL team says AA/BA long-haul only.
Screenshot:
* According to post #281, this page was going to be updated but it didn't get updated for at least 72 hours, even the GGL team ( at least one of the agents ) are aware of the issue.
So, in general, it is sad that if this is the case AA ConciergeKey has more advantage over BA Gold Guest List, as they could access the lounge when they are flying from to LAX, SFO and SNA in Economy or Flagship Business as well while BA GGL's only have access when flying Flagship First ( on the basis that they are flying Flagship First ).
I haven't asked about how it would work on an international connecting itinerary but it is possible to see different interpretations from different agents.
I'll admit that the Soho Lounge is still a decent lounge and an upgrade over the old Flagship Business Lounge in terms of seating/comfort, food, beverages, and atmosphere.
I would be honest that, I wouldn't be annoyed if I was sent to the Soho Lounge rather than the Chelsea Lounge on domestic itinearies, however, I wish that BA updates their website with consistent as accurate information for GGL members. Also, even though I don't have any personal experience, GGL members could have accessed the CCR when flying Alaska or American domestic ( if they cleared security twice ) ( from experiences of GGL member friends that I know personally ) so BA hasn't kept their promise of reciprocal access to the CCR which they responded to GGL's when they asked clarification before the lounges open.
I would be sharing mini reports of both lounges in a subsequent post in the upcoming hours.
Dec 16, 2022, 9:26 pm
#327
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Nov 2018
Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Programs: TK Elite Plus,BAEC GGL,ITA Executive, AFKL Gold,QR Gold,HH Diamond,Bonvoy Gold,ALL Gold
Posts: 14,186
You would be admitted with only your arriving boarding pass. The issue with GGL on Flagship transcontinental is when not flying Flagship First.
Dec 16, 2022, 9:27 pm
#328
Suspended
Join Date: Sep 2019
Programs: AA: CK
Posts: 2,230
So folks, I would share two completely different experiences that I had in the last few days with the Chelsea Lounge flying on a solely domestic AA itinerary as a GGL.
Occasion #1
When I have arrived at the Chelsea Lounge with my boarding pass, there was one AA agent and two BA agents ( with one having a Concorde Team name tag ), they were confused as when they scan my boarding pass, AA couldn't see my GGL status ( not surprised ) and BA couldn't check me in either. I had my physical GGL card present and there was a sheet that showed who was eligible and on that sheet it was written "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest" so me and my guest was admitted. However, a few minutes later the Concorde Team agent approached me and told that on domestic itineraries, next time I would be admitted to the Soho Lounge and I could only use the Chelsea Lounge on international itineraries. However, we were allowed to stay at the lounge for the day.
While exiting the lounge, there were two BA supervisors at the exit and I have asked them about the confusion.
Here is what I was told:
Occasion #2
4 days later from the first occasion, I was flying another AA domestic flight out of JFK. When I went up the elevators, a different AA agent was at the podium at Chelsea, I showed my boarding pass and physical card, and despite that there was the same entry sheet on the table that had the wording "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest", I was told that I could use the Soho Lounge and was escorted there. While being escorted to the Soho Lounge, I asked if there was a change in rules, she was unable to comment and told me that I need to fly "international" to access the Chelsea Lounge as a GGL. The agent was professional, was calm, friendly and not in defensive mode.
A few minutes later, I have pulled up the GGL page ( https://www.britishairways.com/en-us...-list-benefits ), see ss below on what I shared below, there were different AA agents and two BA agents on site, and I was told by both the BA and AA agent despite the website wording that I would need to fly "international" to use the Chelsea Lounge. The BA agents on duty were different BA agents which was not on duty when I visited the Chelsea Lounge on occasion #1 and the BA supervisors were different people.
I also specifically asked that if Flagship domestic routes in Economy/Business qualify for Chelsea Lounge access as a GGL, they told me international only. There was no clarification if I was going to be admitted if I was traveling to Canada, The Caribbean or Mexico with AA, however, the response on post #281 by the GGL team says AA/BA long-haul only.
Screenshot:
* According to post #281, this page was going to be updated but it didn't get updated for at least 72 hours, even the GGL team ( at least one of the agents ) are aware of the issue.
So, in general, it is sad that if this is the case AA ConciergeKey has more advantage over BA Gold Guest List, as they could access the lounge when they are flying from to LAX, SFO and SNA in Economy or Flagship Business as well while BA GGL's only have access when flying Flagship First ( on the basis that they are flying Flagship First ).
I haven't asked about how it would work on an international connecting itinerary but it is possible to see different interpretations from different agents.
I'll admit that the Soho Lounge is still a decent lounge and an upgrade over the old Flagship Business Lounge in terms of seating/comfort, food, beverages, and atmosphere.
I would be honest that, I wouldn't be annoyed if I was sent to the Soho Lounge rather than the Chelsea Lounge on domestic itinearies, however, I wish that BA updates their website with consistent as accurate information for GGL members. Also, even though I don't have any personal experience, GGL members could have accessed the CCR when flying Alaska or American domestic ( if they cleared security twice ) ( from experiences of GGL member friends that I know personally ) so BA hasn't kept their promise of reciprocal access to the CCR which they responded to GGL's when they asked clarification before the lounges open.
I would be sharing mini reports of both lounges in a subsequent post in the upcoming hours.
Occasion #1
When I have arrived at the Chelsea Lounge with my boarding pass, there was one AA agent and two BA agents ( with one having a Concorde Team name tag ), they were confused as when they scan my boarding pass, AA couldn't see my GGL status ( not surprised ) and BA couldn't check me in either. I had my physical GGL card present and there was a sheet that showed who was eligible and on that sheet it was written "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest" so me and my guest was admitted. However, a few minutes later the Concorde Team agent approached me and told that on domestic itineraries, next time I would be admitted to the Soho Lounge and I could only use the Chelsea Lounge on international itineraries. However, we were allowed to stay at the lounge for the day.
While exiting the lounge, there were two BA supervisors at the exit and I have asked them about the confusion.
Here is what I was told:
- AA and BA has contradicting ideas about letting in GGL's on non-Flagship routes; BA would like to have the same access rules as CCR ( all OW flights ) and AA wants to restrict on Flagship routes - By them, I was told that any BA/AA flight should be eligible ( despite the route ) and to approach a BA employee if I was denied entry.
- London and Dallas ( BA & AA HQ's ) are still working on a mutual agreement at this stage and I was apologized for any confusion that might have occured earlier during the day. They have also told me that this lounge is a joint lounge operated by both BA and AA.
- When I told that his colleague from BA told me that we are not eligible and he made an exception and told us next time we need to go to the Soho Lounge, the two BA supervisors claimed that it is what AA is asking BA to tell BA GGL's.
Occasion #2
4 days later from the first occasion, I was flying another AA domestic flight out of JFK. When I went up the elevators, a different AA agent was at the podium at Chelsea, I showed my boarding pass and physical card, and despite that there was the same entry sheet on the table that had the wording "BA Gold Guest List on an AA/BA flight -> +1 guest", I was told that I could use the Soho Lounge and was escorted there. While being escorted to the Soho Lounge, I asked if there was a change in rules, she was unable to comment and told me that I need to fly "international" to access the Chelsea Lounge as a GGL. The agent was professional, was calm, friendly and not in defensive mode.
A few minutes later, I have pulled up the GGL page ( https://www.britishairways.com/en-us...-list-benefits ), see ss below on what I shared below, there were different AA agents and two BA agents on site, and I was told by both the BA and AA agent despite the website wording that I would need to fly "international" to use the Chelsea Lounge. The BA agents on duty were different BA agents which was not on duty when I visited the Chelsea Lounge on occasion #1 and the BA supervisors were different people.
I also specifically asked that if Flagship domestic routes in Economy/Business qualify for Chelsea Lounge access as a GGL, they told me international only. There was no clarification if I was going to be admitted if I was traveling to Canada, The Caribbean or Mexico with AA, however, the response on post #281 by the GGL team says AA/BA long-haul only.
Screenshot:
* According to post #281, this page was going to be updated but it didn't get updated for at least 72 hours, even the GGL team ( at least one of the agents ) are aware of the issue.
So, in general, it is sad that if this is the case AA ConciergeKey has more advantage over BA Gold Guest List, as they could access the lounge when they are flying from to LAX, SFO and SNA in Economy or Flagship Business as well while BA GGL's only have access when flying Flagship First ( on the basis that they are flying Flagship First ).
I haven't asked about how it would work on an international connecting itinerary but it is possible to see different interpretations from different agents.
I'll admit that the Soho Lounge is still a decent lounge and an upgrade over the old Flagship Business Lounge in terms of seating/comfort, food, beverages, and atmosphere.
I would be honest that, I wouldn't be annoyed if I was sent to the Soho Lounge rather than the Chelsea Lounge on domestic itinearies, however, I wish that BA updates their website with consistent as accurate information for GGL members. Also, even though I don't have any personal experience, GGL members could have accessed the CCR when flying Alaska or American domestic ( if they cleared security twice ) ( from experiences of GGL member friends that I know personally ) so BA hasn't kept their promise of reciprocal access to the CCR which they responded to GGL's when they asked clarification before the lounges open.
I would be sharing mini reports of both lounges in a subsequent post in the upcoming hours.
Last edited by Prospero; Dec 20, 2022 at 1:04 pm Reason: combine consecutive posts
Dec 16, 2022, 9:30 pm
#329
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Nov 2018
Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Programs: TK Elite Plus,BAEC GGL,ITA Executive, AFKL Gold,QR Gold,HH Diamond,Bonvoy Gold,ALL Gold
Posts: 14,186
To clarify, I was only told "international" with no other exceptions, terms&conditions, etc... by multiple AA and BA agents on the spot.
Apart from the response from the GGL team agent on post #281 ( which says long-haul only ), there is not a publicly accessible written rule about those non-Flagship international rules so I would say it could be YMMV.
I think, at this stage, only real time experiences could answer to this question.
Dec 16, 2022, 9:35 pm
#330
Suspended
Join Date: Sep 2019
Programs: AA: CK
Posts: 2,230
You're welcome
To clarify, I was only told "international" with no other exceptions, terms&conditions, etc... by multiple AA and BA agents on the spot.
Apart from the response from the GGL team agent on post #281 ( which says long-haul only ), there is not a publicly accessible written rule about those non-Flagship international rules so I would say it could be YMMV.
I think, at this stage, only real time experiences could answer to this question.
To clarify, I was only told "international" with no other exceptions, terms&conditions, etc... by multiple AA and BA agents on the spot.
Apart from the response from the GGL team agent on post #281 ( which says long-haul only ), there is not a publicly accessible written rule about those non-Flagship international rules so I would say it could be YMMV.
I think, at this stage, only real time experiences could answer to this question.