South African Airways have given its airport lounges in South Africa a makeover just in time for next month’s FIFA World Cup. SAA’s Head of Australasia, Thevan Krishna announced the opening of the all new and improved lounges at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, at Cape Town International and the new King Shaka International Airport in Durban.

"For its part SAA is very much ahead of preparations for the World Cup and we look forward to welcoming many Australians on flights to South Africa in June and July. A new and improved International Departures lounge has been opened at O.R. Tambo International Airport for the convenience of our international travellers. For SAA customers travelling on our domestic routes, a new Platinum and Business Class lounge has opened at Cape Town International Airport," he said.

"The opening of these new and improved facilities comes after months of extensive construction of the lounges and re-design of interiors to create a world class experience for our customers. While the design throughout all the lounges offers a dramatic change from the previous look and feel, it remains true to SAA’s uniquely South African heritage and African roots."

"The International Departures Lounge at O.R. Tambo International Airport is SAA’s flagship departure lounge and rivals the world’s best international airline lounges. Situated on the Mezzanine floor of the international departures terminal after passport control, the 2500 square metre space is divided into two areas: one for First Class customers, Voyager Lifetime Platinum and Platinum members and the other for Business Class customers, Voyager Gold and Silver and Star Alliance Gold members. The entire area is a combination of luxury, modernity, practicality and a touch of African opulence evident throughout each space."

Thevan continued, "In order to make the final product a success and welcomed and appreciated by our customers, we needed to understand what they wanted in the space and spent some time researching their views. The lounge was designed with customer comfort in mind, taking into consideration that the time spent in the area averages around 90 minutes. Some customers said they wanted a view of the airport runway, wireless and high-speed internet connection and an upgraded product, all of which have been incorporated into the design."

Another requirement was a Left Luggage facility, a dedicated baggage deposit area within the space. The lounge includes a spectacular view of the ORTIA runway assisted by a raised platform. Other luxuries include rest rooms, rainfall showers, an audio-visual entertainment room, dedicated internet, built-in private entertainment screens and private boardrooms. The runway view is carried through into this area with its chic furnishings. There is also a self-service food area and bar. A children’s area offers high-tech entertainment.