Qantas temporarily closes LAX first class lounge

Qantas’ LAX first class lounge will be off limits for as long as two months, with the airline forced to shutter the premium space last week due to flooding.

Qantas is now redirecting all loungeworthy travellers to the adjacent and recently renovated Qantas Oneworld business class lounge.

A dedicated roped-off dining area has been set up behind that lounge’s bar, with the full à la carte dining menu still available.

(Recommendations from the summer 2026 menu include the summer minestrone, tuna carpaccio and honey-glazed lamb rib.)

Qantas has temporarily closed its LAX first class lounge.

“To date, feedback from eligible customers has been very positive, and we have successfully accommodated all passengers departing on Qantas services,” the airline says.

“While we have a capacity management plan ready to activate if needed, our priority remains ensuring that Chairman’s Lounge, Platinum One, and First Class passengers are always accommodated.”

That does sound slightly ominous for Qantas Platinum frequent flyers and their Oneworld Emerald equivalents.

A tip from Executive Traveller readers: it’s worth taking a detour to check out the American Airlines Flagship Lounge at Terminal 4, which is conveniently connected to TBIT via an airside walkway.

Located right by Gate 41, and officially a business class lounge, the LAX Flagship Lounge is said to have levelled up its dining in recent months, with table service (via QR code) plus Bollinger Champagne.

This is also a solid option for Oneworld Emeralds who are not flying on Qantas, British Airways and Cathay Pacific, as we hear this cohort is being denied entry from the temporary first class dining area at the Qantas Oneworld business lounge.

Also read: Qantas rolls out new rules for sharing lounge passes