British Airways announces major lounge overhaul at Heathrow

British Airways has announced the next stage of a modernisation programme for its Heathrow Airport lounges. It includes a new lounge near the C gates of Terminal 5, a full refurbishment of the arrivals lounge, and a dedicated First check-in area in Terminal 3 run jointly with American Airlines.

The airline called the initiative one of the largest investments in lounges in its history and the first step in a broader plan to redesign each of its Heathrow facilities over the coming years. It is part of a wider effort to change the customer experience from terminal arrival through boarding and arrival at the destination, according to the airline.

The centrepiece is the new lounge at Terminal 5's C gates. Construction is already under way and opening is scheduled for late 2028. The space will follow the carrier's latest design concept and offer panoramic views of the apron and terminal area.

Features include British craftsmanship, wood finishes, glazing, complex metal structures, textiles and custom furniture sourced from different parts of the United Kingdom. There will be areas for dining, rest and work, along with pre-flight showers, and a central bar measuring 17 metres, which the airline says is intended to be among the longest in an airport terminal.

A separate Concorde Lounge section will offer private concierge service and high-end dining, with more privacy and a darker, textured interior for passengers on certain flights.