Canadian carrier Westjet has announced plans for its first owned airport lounge, to be located at its Calgary hub.
Construction has begun on the facility, which will be situated near Concourse B at Calgary International Airport, “to conveniently serve guests travelling from Concourses A and B in the Domestic Terminal, and from Concourse D in the International Terminal”.
The lounge is scheduled to open in late summer next year, and is being designed by California-based firm Gensler.
There are few details about the facility as yet, but Westjet said that the lounge will “seamlessly blend contemporary interior design with refined mountain living”, offering local food and beverages, and “business amenities designed to keep travellers connected”.
The lounge will be open to Platinum, Gold and Silver members of the Westjet Rewards programme, as well as those travelling in the carrier’s business class cabin.
Westjet has been gradually moving away from its low-cost origins, with the launch of a fully-flat business class seat on its Dreamliner aircraft, something which Westjet referred to as the “ongoing premiumization” of its fleet.
Last year the carrier launched an “ultra low-cost” subsidiary under the name Swoop.
Business Traveller recently reviewed Westjet’s premium economy product on a flight between Gatwick and Calgary.
Commenting on the news d’Arcy Monaghan, Westjet’s vice-president, loyalty, said:
“As Westjet continues its accelerated journey to becoming a global network carrier our new flagship lounge in Calgary will give top-tier Westjet Rewards members, business cabin guests and select partner travellers a home within our home in Calgary.
“This lounge will showcase Westjet’s award-winning hospitality, refined style, elevated products and premium experience our guests have been enjoying with the launch of our new Dreamliner.”