Pay for global lounge access with Emirates and Etihad

EMIRATES HAS EXTENDED its policy allowing paid-for access to its lounges, following the introduction of the service at Dubai International (pictured) earlier this year.

Skywards silver and blue members can pay for access “for themselves only” at 27 international airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester, at a cost of US$100 for four hours. Platinum and gold members can pay for access for companions, over the number they are otherwise entitled to. Passengers must be on “Emirates marketed and operated flights and Emirates codeshare flights operated by Qantas”.

Etihad is also now allowing economy class passengers to pay for lounge access worldwide, with Heathrow costing £45 and Manchester £40. Business class customers can pay to upgrade to the carrier’s first class lounge and spa in Abu Dhabi (from US$200, or US$100 for Etihad Guest gold members). Economy flyers can also now “bid” for up to three empty seats next to theirs, subject to availability.

However, Etihad has shelved its free chauffeur drive service for first and business class passengers at all destinations except Abu Dhabi. Instead, it has introduced a paid-for chauffeur service for all customers “at specially negotiated rates”, with the ability to earn miles on bookings. emirates.com, etihad.com