Qantas is determined to open a brand-new first-class lounge at London's Heathrow Airport, but the project has been delayed from its original 2025 timeline, now likely to open 'sometime in 2027-2028'. This timing aligns with the launch of non-stop flights from Sydney and Melbourne to London, using the Project Sunrise Airbus A350-1000 jets. The first hurdle is finding suitable space at Heathrow's Terminal 3, where Qantas operates, as the new lounge will be located in a different area than the current Qantas London Lounge. The existing lounge, which opened in 2017, will be repositioned as a Qantas business class lounge.
Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace acknowledges the infrastructure challenges at Heathrow, stating, 'We are working with Heathrow on what we can achieve there.' The airline is in ongoing discussions about available options, but has not confirmed any details yet. The lounge's original announcement in February 2023 predicted an opening in late 2025, but subsequent delays pushed it to 2026 and now 2027. This delay has given Qantas more time to plan, potentially including direct boarding from the lounge to the aircraft and sweeping views of the airfield, with a focus on wellness features and an unparalleled dining experience.
The new lounge will have a unique identity, similar to the Singapore First Lounge, while reflecting its location. The current Qantas London Lounge has an elegant, British club-like feel. However, CEO Cam Wallace sounds cautious about the project, emphasizing the need for sustainability and economic viability, as well as ensuring sufficient space. The lounge will cater to first-class passengers, Platinum and Platinum One frequent flyers, and members of the invitation-only Chairman's Lounge.
The daily Airbus A380 from London to Sydney via Singapore carries 14 first-class passengers, with Project Sunrise adding six more on each A350-1000 from Sydney and Melbourne. Each Project Sunrise Airbus A350-1000 will feature six room-like first-class suites. Currently, savvy first-class passengers and Platinum-grade frequent flyers often visit Cathay Pacific's first-class lounge, conveniently located next door to Qantas' London business class lounge.
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson confirmed in early 2025 that the airline is still searching for space in London due to the terminal's constraints. She assured that the delay is not deliberate but rather about securing available space. This project invites discussion and debate, as it may spark differing opinions on the best use of space and resources. What do you think? Do you agree or disagree with Qantas' approach to the London first-class lounge?
