Alaska's new flagship lounge opens in Seattle

Expansive views and a grand fireplace are now welcoming Alaska Airlines passengers at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport after the opening of the airline’s much-anticipated new flagship lounge. The lounge is part of the $US668-million North Satellite Modernization Project at Sea-Tac that is also delivering eight new gates and expanded local dining and retail options. The 225,000 square foot North Satellite expansion features open spaces, natural light, the same views, ample gate seating and another modern necessity: easily accessible charging stations. READ: All Nippon introduces giant 4K screens in major cabin revamp There will also be new nursing suite for mothers fully operational by early August. Alaska's new lounge is three times the size of the average lounge and its big windows feature what the airline describes as  "stunning views of the airfield, Olympic Mountains and downtown Seattle”. The 15,800- sq. ft facility was designed in partnership with Graham Baba Architects to project a relaxing and welcoming West Coast vibe with the grand fireplace a centerpiece. A dozen Seattle microbrews are on tap, including Alaska’s exclusive Lounge Life IPA, along with complimentary Pacific Northwest-inspired bites and custom-brewed espresso beverages and teas from an Alaska Lounge barista. The opening of the Seattle lounge follows the recent renovation of Alaska's Lounges in Los Angeles, Portland and Anchorage as well as the opening of Alaska's JFK lounge and the announcement of a new lounge, the carrier's eighth, at San Francisco International Airport. It caters for the significant growth Alaska has seen in the past two years since acquiring Virgin America. Product enhancements in that time include a newly retrofitted Airbus fleet, updated 737-700 cabins, refreshed food and beverage menus with healthier seasonal and local options, fast satellite Wi-Fi and expanded entertainment. Sea-Tac authorities say all operations in the North Satellite will transition to the newly-renovated section at the end of July and the remaining original gates will close for renovation over the next two years. Full renovation of the existing North Satellite will be complete in mid-2021 with double the dining and retail space and 20 total gates. Travelers connecting between Concourse C, North Satellite and Main Terminal can also expect a significant train upgrade by Thanksgiving.