Seattle sneak peek: Alaska Airlines reinvigorates Board Room lounge

Most Stateside travellers would rate Alaska Airlines’ handful of Board Room lounges as average at best, but that’s set to change with the opening of a brand new Board Room in the Qantas partner’s Seattle hub.

Located between gates N1 and N2, the lounge divides into two main sections after passing reception – on your left is the quieter business nook with working tables and power points aplenty…

… flanked by timber dividers and extra bench seating for peak times…

… and a few extra chairs to enjoy the tarmac view:

Or, turn right and you’ll be met by a more casual atmosphere and a manned cocktail bar…

… plenty of comfy seating…

… and a buffet and self-serve beverage zone at the far end:

While a barista-style coffee machine is pictured above, Alaska Airlines wound up installing a self-serve espresso maker instead – a lost opportunity for what would is otherwise a rarity in US airport lounges, but understandable given Alaska Air’s smaller size.

Qantas relies on Alaska Airlines to shuttle its passengers between Los Angeles and Seattle in connection with its own flights to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, with fare-paying business and first class passengers given free entry to the Board Room before their Alaska Airlines flight.

However, Qantas Club members and Gold, Platinum and Platinum One frequent flyers can’t access the Alaska Airlines Board Rooms in Seattle – unlike in Los Angeles where these members are welcome – but like any traveller stuck in economy can pay US$45 (A$63) for a one-off visit.

Priority Pass and Board Room members are also welcome on presenting a same-day boarding pass with any airline, as are American Airlines Admirals Club members when flying with American Airlines or Alaska Airlines.

Also read: The Aussie traveller’s guide to Priority Pass airport lounges

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Chris C.

Chris is a a former contributor to Executive Traveller.