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 2, 2022, 4:49 pm
#61
Join Date: Jan 2022
Programs: BAEC
Posts: 1,454
I'm not quite sure if there's a genuine message being conveyed behind this. I'd like to think your fighting for us US based GGLs!
Given the logic of how GGL provides unlimited access to the CCR if flying from T5 in Y to some place 1hr away, I see no difference to why it would be treated differently in the US (where there are fewer GGLs to take advantage of their earned benefit).
To isolate CKs for a moment, they didn't have unlimited access to the FFD, they had 1-2 passes a year to use to access it so it makes complete sense they wouldn't have the same treatment as a GGL does to the 'new' CCR labeled as the Chelsea.
Also on the GGL vs CK thing. There was a comment here about how easy GGL may be to earn vs CK, and whilst it's irrelevant to this current dilemma, for the traditional traveler that isn't 'optimizing trips' or doing 'points runs' to get an invite to CK or earn 5000TPs they'd both be looking at between $40-70k in spend. Can GGL be acquired for <$10k? Absolutely, but it's besides the point.
Given the logic of how GGL provides unlimited access to the CCR if flying from T5 in Y to some place 1hr away, I see no difference to why it would be treated differently in the US (where there are fewer GGLs to take advantage of their earned benefit).
To isolate CKs for a moment, they didn't have unlimited access to the FFD, they had 1-2 passes a year to use to access it so it makes complete sense they wouldn't have the same treatment as a GGL does to the 'new' CCR labeled as the Chelsea.
Also on the GGL vs CK thing. There was a comment here about how easy GGL may be to earn vs CK, and whilst it's irrelevant to this current dilemma, for the traditional traveler that isn't 'optimizing trips' or doing 'points runs' to get an invite to CK or earn 5000TPs they'd both be looking at between $40-70k in spend. Can GGL be acquired for <$10k? Absolutely, but it's besides the point.
Dec 2, 2022, 4:57 pm
#62
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
I'm not quite sure if there's a genuine message being conveyed behind this. I'd like to think your fighting for us US based GGLs!
Given the logic of how GGL provides unlimited access to the CCR if flying from T5 in Y to some place 1hr away, I see no difference to why it would be treated differently in the US (where there are fewer GGLs to take advantage of their earned benefit).
To isolate CKs for a moment, they didn't have unlimited access to the FFD, they had 1-2 passes a year to use to access it so it makes complete sense they wouldn't have the same treatment as a GGL does to the 'new' CCR labeled as the Chelsea.
Also on the GGL vs CK thing. There was a comment here about how easy GGL may be to earn vs CK, and whilst it's irrelevant to this current dilemma, for the traditional traveler that isn't 'optimizing trips' or doing 'points runs' to get an invite to CK or earn 5000TPs they'd both be looking at between $40-70k in spend. Can GGL be acquired for <$10k? Absolutely, but it's besides the point.
Given the logic of how GGL provides unlimited access to the CCR if flying from T5 in Y to some place 1hr away, I see no difference to why it would be treated differently in the US (where there are fewer GGLs to take advantage of their earned benefit).
To isolate CKs for a moment, they didn't have unlimited access to the FFD, they had 1-2 passes a year to use to access it so it makes complete sense they wouldn't have the same treatment as a GGL does to the 'new' CCR labeled as the Chelsea.
Also on the GGL vs CK thing. There was a comment here about how easy GGL may be to earn vs CK, and whilst it's irrelevant to this current dilemma, for the traditional traveler that isn't 'optimizing trips' or doing 'points runs' to get an invite to CK or earn 5000TPs they'd both be looking at between $40-70k in spend. Can GGL be acquired for <$10k? Absolutely, but it's besides the point.
And I agree with you 1000%
Maybe it was written ironically not to sound too entitled
Further to my logic
If BA has two top lounges and in one allows their top customers why would it restrict access to the in the other one. I’d see it as a discrimination if its top customers based on its other pole of operations, JFK
And if it is cobranded and takes effort to negotiate with AA then BA should negotiate for its top customers given I gather they weren’t given the option to stay in T7, they had to move in with AS
But i doubt there will be issues if not with AAgents
I didn’t read this part if the note well, but please share the secret 😂
To get to 5000 (or even 3000) I’m often at least at CCk spend level. And I try to save!
Last edited by Prospero; Dec 20, 2022 at 1:14 pm Reason: combine consecutive posts
Dec 2, 2022, 5:12 pm
#63
Ambassador, British Airways Executive Club, easyJet and Ryanair
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: UK/Las Vegas
Programs: BA Gold (GGL/CCR)
Posts: 15,906
It is a genuine message and it’s not about fighting its about what we have enjoyed at T7 and what i hope to continue to enjoy at T8
And I agree with you 1000%
Maybe it was written ironically not to sound too entitled
Further to my logic
If BA has two top lounges and in one allows their top customers why would it restrict access to the in the other one. I’d see it as a discrimination if its top customers based on its other pole of operations, JFK
And if it is cobranded and takes effort to negotiate with AA then BA should negotiate for its top customers given I gather they weren’t given the option to stay in T7, they had to move in with AS
But i doubt there will be issues if not with AAgents
And I agree with you 1000%
Maybe it was written ironically not to sound too entitled
Further to my logic
If BA has two top lounges and in one allows their top customers why would it restrict access to the in the other one. I’d see it as a discrimination if its top customers based on its other pole of operations, JFK
And if it is cobranded and takes effort to negotiate with AA then BA should negotiate for its top customers given I gather they weren’t given the option to stay in T7, they had to move in with AS
But i doubt there will be issues if not with AAgents
“As a Gold Guest List Member you have access to the Concorde Room, our most luxurious and well-appointed lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 5. Extend the invitation to one guest when you’re flying with British Airways in any cabin, or two guests when flying in First, so they can relax or dine with you prior to take-off.
You can also take advantage of our exclusive Chelsea lounge at New York JFK Terminal 8 when you fly with British Airways or American Airlines. Likewise, a guest may join you when you’re flying with either airline, or two guests when flying in First. (Passengers flying with other oneworld airlines are unable to access this lounge, but can enjoy our other two lounges).”
Bolding mine for emphasis. You can’t be any clearer than that!
Dec 2, 2022, 6:33 pm
#65
Join Date: Sep 2019
Location: LDN / NY
Programs: BA GGL, Marriott Amb, Hyatt Glob
Posts: 536
Just to be clear as CWS hasn't posted in here except for the content when it was created - "For GGLs, we know this covers all BA and AA cabins, we still need confirmation it applies to the other oneworld airlines in T8 such as Iberia, which has also relocated to terminal 8."
Are you saying you asked twice, and they said that GGLs are fine to enter on AA domestic flights twice?
Are you saying you asked twice, and they said that GGLs are fine to enter on AA domestic flights twice?
Dec 2, 2022, 6:42 pm
#66
Ambassador, British Airways Executive Club, easyJet and Ryanair
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: UK/Las Vegas
Programs: BA Gold (GGL/CCR)
Posts: 15,906
Just to be clear as CWS hasn't posted in here except for the content when it was created - "For GGLs, we know this covers all BA and AA cabins, we still need confirmation it applies to the other oneworld airlines in T8 such as Iberia, which has also relocated to terminal 8."
Are you saying you asked twice, and they said that GGLs are fine to enter on AA domestic flights twice?
Are you saying you asked twice, and they said that GGLs are fine to enter on AA domestic flights twice?
Dec 2, 2022, 6:49 pm
#67
Join Date: Sep 2019
Location: LDN / NY
Programs: BA GGL, Marriott Amb, Hyatt Glob
Posts: 536
Yes what you quoted is what we all assumed was the case - we're talking about flying AA; on a domestic (non-flagship) route. But given GGLs were being rejected from the Chelsea lounge on AA domestics yesterday, we're trying to work out if they've resolved the confusion they had around the CK and GGL entry requirements being different.
Dec 2, 2022, 7:08 pm
#68
Ambassador, British Airways Executive Club, easyJet and Ryanair
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: UK/Las Vegas
Programs: BA Gold (GGL/CCR)
Posts: 15,906
Yes what you quoted is what we all assumed was the case - we're talking about flying AA; on a domestic (non-flagship) route. But given GGLs were being rejected from the Chelsea lounge on AA domestics yesterday, we're trying to work out if they've resolved the confusion they had around the CK and GGL entry requirements being different.
Dec 2, 2022, 7:11 pm
#69
Join Date: Oct 2005
Programs: BA GGL & GfL, AA LTP, Marriott (sigh) Ambassador, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 3,225
i still do not think CK and GGL are equivalents solely for the reason that AA still sells memberships to the basic lounge, like every other US carrier. paid or via credit cards etc, they have an interest in keeping things limited.
the scope of BA and its GGL fliers in the US is still going to be quite small compared to CKs or explats that will regularly use the new facilities.
the scope of BA and its GGL fliers in the US is still going to be quite small compared to CKs or explats that will regularly use the new facilities.
Dec 2, 2022, 7:23 pm
#70
Join Date: Dec 2018
Posts: 16
Sat in it now. Total shambles - menu is down to “burger, prawn cocktail or Caesar salad”. No Diet Coke, Coke Zero, sparkling water… I gave up at this point.
Drinks ordering seems to be hit and miss - 50% of drinks seem rejected or served with an apology for not being the right thing.
Lounge itself is nice enough, but the CCR was much nicer IMO. Certainly much quieter and service was orders of magnitude better.
Drinks ordering seems to be hit and miss - 50% of drinks seem rejected or served with an apology for not being the right thing.
Lounge itself is nice enough, but the CCR was much nicer IMO. Certainly much quieter and service was orders of magnitude better.
Dec 2, 2022, 7:47 pm
#71
FlyerTalk Evangelist, Ambassador, British Airways Executive Club
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Somewhere between 0 and 13,000 metres high
Programs: AF/KL Life Plat, BA GGL+GfL, ALL Plat, Hilton Diam, Marriott Gold, blablablah, etc
Posts: 30,491
- The wording is very clear that GGLs are allowed in when flying on BA or AA, regardless of route and regardless of cabin, and not when flying any other airline.
- The wording is equally clear that CK are only allowed in when flying AA Flagship routes only regardless of cabin.
There is simply no parallelism in the GGL and CK access.
Dec 2, 2022, 8:03 pm
#72
Join Date: Sep 2019
Location: LDN / NY
Programs: BA GGL, Marriott Amb, Hyatt Glob
Posts: 536
There is no confusion to be honest. As several of us have mentioned, apart from those flying BA F or AA Flagship F/Business Plus who get in by virtue of their tickets:
- The wording is very clear that GGLs are allowed in when flying on BA or AA, regardless of route and regardless of cabin, and not when flying any other airline.
- The wording is equally clear that CK are only allowed in when flying AA Flagship routes only regardless of cabin.
There is simply no parallelism in the GGL and CK access.
- The wording is very clear that GGLs are allowed in when flying on BA or AA, regardless of route and regardless of cabin, and not when flying any other airline.
- The wording is equally clear that CK are only allowed in when flying AA Flagship routes only regardless of cabin.
There is simply no parallelism in the GGL and CK access.
What I am hoping to hear, is that if I turn up tomorrow that all of the confusion has been dealt with and I won't have to stand at the desk asking for the manager to show them the T&Cs.
Dec 2, 2022, 8:04 pm
#73
Join Date: Oct 2014
Programs: BA GGL, Hilton Diamond, IHG Diamond
Posts: 809
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!
Last edited by Foofighter69; Dec 2, 2022 at 8:15 pm
Dec 2, 2022, 8:14 pm
#74
Join Date: Sep 2019
Location: LDN / NY
Programs: BA GGL, Marriott Amb, Hyatt Glob
Posts: 536
@Foofighter69 Excellent and comprehensive review. The brightness and layout not being conducive to relaxing were my biggest concern, as I don't know how they can fix that without a full refurb. Glad to hear the Soho is a little more intimate and won't have the 'living wall' and bright lights - perhaps the move will be to grab dinner and a few glasses in Chelsea (menu and chilled drinks allowing) and then head over there.
Dec 2, 2022, 8:24 pm
#75
Join Date: Dec 2018
Posts: 16
Foofighter69 Interesting - I didn’t have enough time to try out soho, but will definitely give it a try next time.
Agreed that the management is chaotic - the suited men walked around me whilst I sat on my own and it wasn’t till one of the overworked ladies showed up that I was able to place my order.
Time to get a bunch of F/GGLs on here to send constructive feedback I think. This is a step back from a BA perspective,
Agreed that the management is chaotic - the suited men walked around me whilst I sat on my own and it wasn’t till one of the overworked ladies showed up that I was able to place my order.
Time to get a bunch of F/GGLs on here to send constructive feedback I think. This is a step back from a BA perspective,
