Air France Potentially Launching New Lounge in Newark International Airport

Air France has announced that it is potentially opening a new airport lounge in New Jersey’s Newark International Airport.

Aviation A2Z is reporting that the international air carrier submitted a proposal to Port Authority officials for the new lounge as of Thursday, Oct. 24. The proposal is currently in review, as of this writing.

Beginning on Jan. 1, 2025, the airline suggested a seven-year lease. The carrier has committed to pay $13.4 million in rent during the first lease term.

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The international airline has also promised to invest at least $3 million in lounge refurbishment. This upgrade will address the current shortcomings of Terminal B’s first-class passenger amenities. The executive director of the Port Authority “received recommendations to approve the proposal,” according to the outlet. This extension comes after Air France resumed service between Newark and Paris in December 2022.

Air France’s trust in the performance of the Newark-Paris service is demonstrated by the investment. At the moment, Terminal B at Newark Airport has issues with congested gate areas and few concession alternatives.

Air France Is the Latest Airline To Get a Lounge Upgrade

The international French carrier isn’t the only airline to campaign for a lounge upgrade. Last month, JetBlue Airways declared its intention to open its first airport lounges at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York. By late 2025, the airline hopes to have New York’s lounge operational, and Boston’s shortly after. The airline’s “JetForward” strategy, which aims to increase premium products for its devoted customers, includes this program.

TrueBlue Mosaic 4 members will gain from these new lounges, as JetBlue improves its loyalty program, reaffirming the airline’s dedication to providing a first-rate travel experience. The lounges will have spaces for mingling, working, and resting as well as local artwork and facilities like private offices and a full bar.

“Customers have asked for a JetBlue lounge for years and we can’t wait to unveil our take in New York and Boston,” said Marty St. George, president of JetBlue, in a statement. “Lounges have become an essential offering for the growing numbers of customers seeking premium experiences, and JetBlue’s lounges will further boost the value of our TrueBlue loyalty program as we expand our portfolio of JetBlue credit cards.”