Australian carrier Qantas has launched a new lounge concept for people who want to get hydrated before they enter the moisture-sapping environment of an aircraft cabin.
Known as Quench, the station offers a range of non-alcoholic beverages — including a signature blend lemon myrtle, parsley and citrus — and will be rolled out to future lounge developments. Other offerings include a ginger refresher, elderberry and pink grapefruit syrups with a choice of still or sparking water.
“It's self-service and offers a range of different non-alcoholic beverages to help our customers stay hydrated throughout their journey," said Qantas creative director food, Beverage and Service Neil Perry.
The new concept was launched at the opening of the airline’s new international lounge in the Queensland capital of Brisbane.
Brisbane serves almost 60 international direct flights each week and the new split-level lounge offers 30 per cent more space than previous lounges. It is part of a multi-million-dollar upgrade by Qantas at the port
“This lounge marks our continued investment in the entire customer journey,’’ Qantas International chief executive Gareth Evans said. “We’ve almost finished the refurbishment of our A330 fleet at the Brisbane Maintenance Facility, added new services to Japan and New Zealand, and the domestic terminal lounges are set for a complete redesign in coming months.’’
The light-filled lounge is based on the airline’s award-winning Singapore and Hong Kong facilities and a new lounge to be opened at London’s Heathrow Airport.
It includes a bar serving craft beer and premium wines, an all-day barista coffee service and a new signature “breakfast hatch’’ with made-to-order dishes.
A key feature is an abstract glass and light art installation, The Pulse of Our Ancient land, which depicts indigenous lands.
