As most people on this board know, the oneworld program allows members to access any oneworld lounge on the day of departure, not just that of the carrier airline.

As an AA Executive Platinum (1world emerald), I decided to experiment with this policy on two recent trips within Asia.

At the first point, SIN, I was scheduled on a CX flight from SIN to BKK. CX only has one lounge at SIN, and typically only offers business class (no first) on flights from this location. I figured that QF probably had a decent designated first class facility since they offer 3-class long haul service to both Europe and Australia from this location. Glancing at the departure board, I noted that no QF flights were scheduled for the next 3-4 hours, so I guessed that the lounge would be pretty empty, if indeed it was even open. As a matter of fact, it was open, and the counter attendant and staff seemed startled by my arrival-- both the business and first class lounges were totally empty and completely at my disposal. After the lounge attendant emphasized that I would be responsible for monitoring the departure of my CX flight, I settled in for an extremely relaxing hour-- totally undisturbed.

Next stop, BKK. Again, I was booked on CX-- this time to HKG. A glance at the terminal map indicated that QF had what appeared to be an extremely large facility, but located at the far end of Terminal 1-- quite a walk. Since once again, no QF flights were leaving for the next 3-4 hours, I wasn't sure the lounge would be open, but decided I could use the exercise, anyway.

Upon arrival at the lounge, I was greeted by the agent, who took my boarding card and emerald card and made copious notes on what appeared to be a QF manifest of their own eligible pax that day. This time, I was disappointed to find 2 interlopers in what I hoped would be my private sanctuary, but since they were sleeping it was easy enough to imagine being once again completely alone and I basically had the run of the place.

Both lounges were much better than the CX experience, due to the following:

1) In SIN, CX has no F class lounge, QF does. The CX F lounge in BKK is quite small. In both cities, CX operates primarily short-haul service, with no F class available-- so this makes sense.

2) In both cities, the QF lounge was virtually empty, while the CX lounge was reasonably full. Again, this naturally makes sense due to the flight schedules both airlines were operating.

Lesson learned-- if you arrive at certain airports well before flight time, and want to take advantage of 1world status, you can have a lounge virtually to yourself if airline schedules cooperate.

Just keep in mind two risks:

1) You may go out of your way, only to find the lounge closed; and

2) You might miss your flight if you're not careful. In BKK, the CX flight was delayed in boarding, according to the monitor. As soon as the display showed "Boarding," I left the lounge and headed towards the gate. After making it about half-way to the gate, they began announcing last call over the PA, and when I finally got to the gate, I was one of the last pax to board.

BA/QF compared to CX lounges in SIN are, like you said, quite a far distance from each other. I vaguely remember the CX lounge having a few more hot food options from BA though. When the BA/QF flights are close to leaving, it becomes very crowded in the BA/QF lounge. So crowded that there are lines, not just a waitlist, but a real line for the shower. Apparently people didn't like the way the shower list was being kept. I kind of remember First passengers getting priority....but how many people standing in line would let a First passenger butt in line to get a shower? I wouldn't even try it. You could get seriously hurt.

I have only used those lounges a few times though so this may not be very indicitive of how things typically are.

I've been to the QF/BA lounge in BKK -- and it's much bigger than the CX F lounge. But at least when I was there, the CX lounge had much better food.

But you are right -- the CX F lounge is quite small. I think it was an afterthought because CX has very few F flights from BKK...

that is what i always do

in LHR T3, there is a BA F lounge right next to AA/CX lounge. but it does not really qualified as a F lounge since BA only have a few flights leaving T3 for Africa (hope they renovate it soon)

in LAX, they are also next to each other. but nowadays it has been changed to BA/QF/CX F lounge and CX staff did give you the lounge ticket there (instead of the CX J lounge)

The best part is PHL. it is also located near the AA/Eagle departure gates (but downstairs) the BA F lounge is very nice, and quiet, good bar and chocolates on the coffee table.(there is probably only one flight per day for BA)

[This message has been edited by pegasus8228 (edited 04-10-2001).]