A new first-class lounge is open for business at the Edmonton International Airport and passengers don’t need to be flying first-class to get in.
Plaza Premium Lounge will offer first-class service to any domestic and international traveller with valid boarding passes.
Guests pay a flat rate to gain access to the lounge and then receive an all-inclusive experience including food and drinks.
“After my bad experience travelling economy class, I realized it’s not right,” said Song Hoi See, founder of Plaza Premium Lounge.
“Travelling is supposed to be an experience. Even though you’re travelling economy class you don’t have to feel that kind of pressure. You should have that kind of nice environment, cozy environment, to rest, particularly when your flight is delayed.”
That was 15 years ago and today, the business has expanded from Hong Kong to airports around the world – including here in Edmonton.
Access to the lounge costs $35 for two hours.
That gives travellers access to computer workstations, Internet access, newspapers, magazines, televisions, showers, a food buffet and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Lounge guests can be served up to four alcohol drinks for the two-hour period.
“It’s very, very reasonably priced,” Hoi See said.
“Can you imagine pay $35, you come in, everything is provided, food, beverage, nice ambience, you can take a shower, free Wi-Fi that is available. It’s great value for money.”
Traveller Michael Cook agrees the value for the money is high.
“If you buy a meal out there, you might as well come in here. It’s included in your price, so it is a good deal,” Cook said.
“It’s a very good deal.”
Plaza Premium Lounge is the first company in the world to offer airport VIP lounges to passengers regardless of airline or travel class. The goal is to enhance the airport experience.
The Edmonton International Airport is one of three Canadian airports to offer Plaza Premium Lounges to all passengers.
Vancouver was first, followed by Toronto.
Hoi See says he is looking into whether the lounge should expand to Calgary and Winnipeg airports next.
Thursday’s opening at the EIA is the second pay-in lounge at the airport.
The first such lounge already exists in U.S. departures.
With files from Laura Lowe
