OREANDA-NEWS. February 13, 2013. Cathay Pacific Airways reopened the First Class Lounge in The Wing, the airline’s flagship lounge at Hong Kong International Airport, following an extensive renovation. The newly opened 1,697-square-metre lounge, together with the Business Class Lounge, where renovations were completed last year, offers unparalleled levels of comfort and service to passengers flying out of Hong Kong, reported the press-centre of Cathay Pacific.

The Wing set a new standard in airline ground service when it opened its doors in 1998. With a vision to elevate the passenger experience to the next level, Cathay Pacific commissioned world-renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners to redesign The Wing. Work on the complete renovation of the facility commenced in late 2010.

Cathay Pacific Chief Operating Officer Ivan Chu said: “The refurbishment of The Wing highlights our commitment to offering the highest level of products and services to our valued customers. We will continue to make significant investments to ensure we deliver the very best to our passengers both on the ground and in the air.”

Among the many changes is an upgrade to The Haven, the iconic feature of the First Class Lounge. This popular dining area has been expanded to more than double its original capacity and features an expanded buffet counter that offers an extensive range of appetisers, Asian and Western dishes, and delicious desserts. The passenger dining experience has been further enhanced by a reinvented a la carte menu complemented by recommended wine pairings.

Outside The Haven is a full-service bar - a newly created space where passengers can relax and enjoy a view of the airport runway over pre-meal drinks. Also new to The Wing is The Champagne Bar, where passengers will be greeted with a welcome drink upon arrival at the First Class Lounge. The bar offers a free flow of champagne selections throughout the day, providing passengers with a touch of indulgence before they head to the main lounge.

The Cabana, one of the classic features of The Wing, has also been refurbished to provide a new level of comfort to passengers. Each of the five Cabanas now features a spacious shower, a full-sized bath and a comfortable day bed, providing a calm, relaxing and private sanctuary for passengers to unwind before their journey. There are also 12 luxury shower suites available for those who simply wish to freshen up before departure.

The Wing’s design has also incorporated a number of environmental features. For example, the architects selected bamboo and eucalyptus – both from sustainable sources - as two of the key materials in The Wing, and natural light is utilised to the full throughout the lounge.

The Wing’s First Class Lounge is open to First Class passengers, Diamond Marco Polo Club members and Emerald oneworld members. Opening hours are from 5:30am until the last departure.