Star Alliance unveils first Asia lounge at CAN
The opening ceremony of Star Alliance's first lounge in Asia
Star Alliance has opened its first lounge in Asia at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) in Guangzhou, China. From November 21, the lounge will be available to First and Business Class passengers, and Star Alliance Gold status travellers on member airline flights departing from Terminal 1.
The new Star Alliance branded lounge is located in a dedicated space on the upper level of the existing CAN lounge in the Terminal 1 international area, offering exclusive access to Star Alliance member airline guests. The Star Alliance area provides a comfortable environment for travellers as they relax or work before their flight. Ideally situated close to the departure gates for Star Alliance member airlines, the lounge features an open layout and offers 750 square meters of space which can accommodate up to 100 guests. Open around the 24/7, it welcomes travellers with varying flight schedules.
"Lounges are a critical component for the effortless travel experience we aim to provide to our member airline passengers," said Theo Panagiotoulias, CEO, Star Alliance. "As a key strategic hub in Asia, Guangzhou serves as an important gateway for our guests. We are excited to inaugurate our first lounge in Asia, given the significance of the continent to aviation growth today and in the years to come."
Ambar Franco, Star Alliance's Vice President for Customer Experience, also commented: "Our first Star Alliance branded lounge in Asia is an exciting milestone for us. Thoughtfully designed with the modern traveller in mind, it offers an effortless blend of comfort and functionality. Conveniently located close to departure gates, this lounge also provides travellers with the flexibility to relax, work or refresh before their flight, all while enjoying a wide range of refreshment options and services tailored to their needs."
The lounge offers tarmac views and practical amenities, such as workstations and comfortable seating areas for both relaxation and productivity. Tucked in a quiet space, the VIP room is a 100 square meters private area ideal for group or private business meetings, available upon request. Travellers are also welcome to use the shower suites to refresh themselves before their flight.
The Star Alliance branded lounge offers a sense of connection to Guangzhou and the Pearl Delta River region, the press release said. In addition to being adorned with art pieces by local artists, the lounge also has an exclusive Tea Appreciation Corner that will be available on special occasions, where visitors can experience the region's renowned tea culture. A range of food options is also available, with light bites and regional delights featuring local cuisine served throughout the day. There is also a dedicated bar counter where travellers can enjoy drinks that have been specially curated for the lounge.
Qi Yaoming, Deputy General Manager of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, said, "The fact that Star Alliance has chosen to open its first branded lounge in Asia at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is not only a sign of trust and support for us, but also an acknowledgment of the status of Baiyun Airport as an important international hub. Baiyun Airport will continue to uphold the service concept of 'Customer First' and continuously build itself into an airline-friendly airport to provide even better service guarantees for Star Alliance and its member airlines."
