Airport lounge operators that have not yet adopted a QR code-based approach will need to carry a physical credit or debit card. (Representative image)
To avoid unpleasant situations at the airport, travelers should familiarize themselves with the latest measures implemented to ensure equitable use of lounges.
Airport lounge access is a popular program among frequent flyers. But as they say, all good things come to an end. In the future, free entry to airport lounges with a credit card may not be as easy as it is now. Airport lounges are once again evolving into premium offerings, with increasing entry restrictions and amenities that are typically equivalent to admission fees.
A 2022 survey by airport lounge operator DreamFolks found that more than 57.23 million debit and credit card users in India had access to airport lounges, and this figure was expected to rise rapidly. However, the tremendous success of airport lounge access programs has also created a new obligation to ensure equity in lounge access.
This is because the lounge can only accommodate a certain number of people. Overcrowding may occur if demand for admission exceeds capacity. To prevent these situations, lounge entry requirements are typically tightened.
To avoid unpleasant situations at the airport, travelers should familiarize themselves with the latest measures implemented to ensure equitable use of lounges.
Airport Lounges: Actions taken by Pune, Calicut, Trivandrum and other operators
- Identity verification: Dedicated staff oversees all security measures and provides real-time monitoring. This includes matching the name and ID on your boarding pass using a credit or debit card for access control.
- Access time limits: Set limits on the amount of time passengers can remain in the lounge, especially during busy times. This is to ensure that they do not overstay and that other people can use the facilities.
- Digital Entry Code for Airline Lounge Users: Passengers who are Airline Access Program members may only enter the lounge via a digital access code. Full digital check-in is possible by simply presenting the QR code of each airline with your mobile phone to the lounge staff.
Airport Lounges: Actions taken by credit card companies providing access
- Airport lounge operators that have not yet adopted a QR code-based approach will need to carry a physical credit or debit card.
- Credit card companies have implemented several steps to facilitate lounge entry via QR codes.
Airport Lounges: Actions Taken by Airlines
- Measures such as occupancy limits are typically put in place to limit the number of people allowed in the lounge at any given moment.
- Additionally, lounge operators closely monitor visitor behavior and may restrict entry or impose penalties for misuse of facilities or violations of lounge policies.