Airline Onboard Bars and Lounges: The Glamorous Return
Let’s face it. Airlines are economizing in economy class by cramming seats closer together than a Friday night train ride home. Yet, for those fortunate enough to travel in first and business class, airlines are pulling out all the stops, rolling out the red carpet with more space and plush seating. But wait, there’s more! A select few airlines are going above and beyond, introducing bars and lounges right on the plane. Yes, you read that right. We’re talking about bars at 30,000 feet, a refuge where you can stretch your legs and swap stories with fellow high-flyers.
Efficient use of space is the name of the game, and some airlines have nailed it by placing these bars in otherwise unusable areas. Convenient and fun—it’s a win-win. But before we dive into a bubbly glass of champagne, let’s explore what these bars and lounges offer.
Emirates A380 Onboard Bar
Emirates basically sets the gold standard. With a fleet of over 100 Airbus A380s featuring fancy bars at the upper deck, Emirates has turned the airline bar into a cultural phenomenon. With staff on hand throughout the flight, you can sip a cocktail at the bar or take it to your personal oasis of a seat. The cocktail menu? Let’s just say it’s extensive enough to make James Bond envious. The foot traffic is a bit high, thanks to attendants weaving through, but that only adds to the buzz. Just a heads-up: If you’re in business class, consider picking a seat away from the bar unless you’re up for a lively—perhaps too lively—experience.
Newer A380s offer a refreshed look with booth seating, a nice twist on traditional airline seating arrangements.
Virgin Atlantic: A Journey Through Time and Taste
Virgin Atlantic keeps remaking its social spaces like it’s going out of style. While their older planes have smaller, more intimate bars, their A350-900s feature “The Loft,” an expansive lounge area decked out with couches and an entertainment screen. It’s perfect for relaxing with a cocktail or snack, despite the absence of a permanent bartender.
And don’t miss “The Booth,” a more exclusive offering for intimate dinners or wine or cognac tastings. You might just feel like you’re in a chic city lounge, albeit one cruising at tens of thousands of feet in the sky.
Qatar Airways: Style and Substance
Qatar Airways has fewer A380s, but boy, do they make them count. Their onboard bar trumps even Emirates with its style. Spacious, with minimal foot traffic and all the drinks you could dream of. Wine connoisseurs, cocktail lovers, mocktail enthusiasts—all are welcome. Just sit back and enjoy your drink of choice in a bar that’s as elegant as any you’d find on the ground.
Korean Air: A Case of Glamour Gone
Korean Air once boasted the “Celestial Bar,” a high-flying heaven sponsored by Absolute vodka. Fast forward to today, and the concept has sadly faded. What was once a frothy, glamorous experience is now just a snack station. A lounge at the front of the upper deck remains, but without any extra services, it’s more of a relic than a revelation.
Qantas: Understated Elegance
Qantas has taken a more subtle approach at the front of its A380 upper deck. The lounge is understated but efficiently uses space otherwise relegated to Emirate’s palatial showers. While formal service isn’t on the menu, you only need to ask, and a flight attendant will gladly bring over drinks or snacks. It’s finesse in simplicity.
Etihad: The Lobby Awaits
Etihad’s A380s are social scenes in disguise. “The Lobby” can comfortably fit half a dozen passengers with two couches. No permanent crew, but should you fancy a drink or snack, help is just a buzz away. So, sit back and absorb the enchanting atmosphere.
Bottom Line
From Emirates to Virgin Atlantic and beyond to Qatar Airways, Korean Air, Qantas, and Etihad, these airlines elevate flying to an art form. Sadly, this luxurious trend may dwindle as A380s retire. Still, the glamor is unmatched, making flying feel less like travel and more like an exclusive party.
Like pondering over the perfect wine, choosing a favorite onboard bar is a delicious dilemma. So, who’s won your heart in the airborne bar stakes? Meanwhile, check out this magnificent Val Seny ski resort for your next adventure.