Collinson, the operator of Priority Pass™ – the original and market-leading airport experiences program – is pleased to share the winners of the Global Airport Lounge of the Year Awards. Whisky walls, private double-bed suites, spa treatments, and celebrity chef-endorsed menus are just some of the innovative offerings featured in the top-rated lounges, located in countries including Ecuador, United Arab Emirates, Latvia, Thailand and Mexico.
Global winner
This year’s global winner is the Sala VIP Internacional, operated by Corporación Quiport, at Quito International Airport in Ecuador, the main gateway into the country and the only greenfield airport in South America. Sala VIP Internacional put the customer experience at the heart of their recent lounge expansion and pride themselves on offering services that will cater to everyone’s needs. One of the main highlights of this lounge is the outdoor terrace with panoramic views of the city, providing a space that captures the light and color of Ecuador’s vibrant capital. The lounge is fitted out with ample and distinguished locally sourced furnishings providing a luxurious and cultural feel. The lounge menu, designed by renowned local chef Andrés Miño, includes international and Ecuadorian cuisine, and guests can enjoy a variety of wines from the lounge’s private cellar, while watching Quito’s beautiful sunsets.
Andrew O’Brian, President and CEO at Quiport, operator of Sala VIP Internacional commented: “It’s an honor to be named as the global winner of this year’s Global Airport Lounge of the Year Awards. We’re proud to offer a universal space where passengers can relax and unwind whilst still capturing the special Quito spirit – warmth, colour and great food!
“Taking in our famous sunsets while surrounded by the jacaranda and jasmine that adorn our terrace is the perfect way to relax before a flight and we’re thrilled that this unique experience, coupled with our excellent customer service, has left a lasting impression on our guests.”
Airport Lounge of the Year winners
Global:Overall Winner: Sala VIP Internacional, Quito International Airport, Ecuador
Europe:
Regional Winner: Primeclass Riga Business Lounge, Terminal E, Riga International Airport, Latvia
Highly Commended: Northern Lights Executive Lounge, Aberdeen International Airport, United Kingdom
Africa & Middle East:
Regional Winner: Ahlan Lounge at B, Terminal 3, Concourse B, Dubai International Airport, United Arab Emirates
Highly Commended: Marhaba Lounge, Terminal 3, Concourse A, Dubai International Airport, United Arab Emirates
Asia Pacific:
Regional Winner: Miracle First Class Lounge, International Concourse D, Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Thailand
Highly Commended: SATS Premier Lounge, Terminal 3, Singapore Changi International Airport, Singapore
North America:
Regional Winner: Lounge 19, Terminal 1, Mexico City Benito Juarez International Airport, Mexico
Highly Commended: The Club MCO, Terminal B, Concourse 4, Orlando FL International Airport, United States
Latin America and The Caribbean:
Highly Commended: Eldorado Lounge, Terminal 1, Bogota El Dorado International Airport, Colombia
Andy Besant, Director of Travel Experiences at Collinson, operator of Priority Pass, said: “Some less explored destinations have performed particularly well in this year’s rankings. As intrepid travel continues to rise, we’re noticing increased traffic in lounges at airports that are off the traditional tourist trail and veer from expected flight paths, highlighting the outstanding experiences that are offered in lounges the world over.
