Jun 1, 2026
Airport lounges have become one of the most coveted perks in travel, offering everything from complimentary cocktails to quiet workspaces and upscale dining away from crowded terminals. Now, Alaska Airlines is raising the stakes.
The airline recently unveiled plans for a massive new lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) that will span more than 41,000 square feet across two levels when it opens in late 2027. With roughly 700 seats, shower suites, multiple premium bars, à la carte dining and chef-curated seasonal menus, the airline says the facility will be among the largest airport lounges in the country.
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The announcement comes as Alaska expands its international footprint, adding new nonstop service to destinations including London, Rome and Reykjavík.
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But travelers hoping to sip craft cocktails and enjoy elevated dining in the new space will need more than a boarding pass.
How much does it cost to get into an Alaska Lounge?
Access to the new Seattle lounge will vary depending on how you fly and how much you’re willing to spend.
According to Alaska Airlines, the main level will be open to Alaska Lounge members, day-pass guests and eligible first-class travelers. The upper level will be reserved for international long-haul passengers flying in premium cabins, along with certain elite loyalty members traveling internationally.
One of the simplest ways to gain access is through an Alaska Lounge membership. Alaska currently charges $595 annually for its standard plan, while its Alaska Lounge+ membership costs $795 per year and includes access to nearly 90 partner lounges worldwide, including select Admirals Club and Qantas Club locations when traveling on eligible itineraries.
Travelers can also purchase a day pass when available. Alaska currently charges $65 for a day pass, though availability can be limited during busy travel periods.
Some premium-cabin travelers won’t need to pay extra. Alaska says guests traveling in its international business-class suites, as well as eligible Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald frequent-flyer members, receive lounge access as part of their ticket benefits.
For travelers who don’t already hold elite status, reaching those tiers generally requires earning qualifying miles through Alaska’s Mileage Plan program or spending on a co-branded Alaska Airlines credit card.
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How does it compare to other giant airport lounges?
The race to build larger and more luxurious airport lounges has accelerated in recent years as airlines compete for higher-spending travelers.
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According to The Seattle Times, Alaska’s planned 41,000-square-foot facility would surpass Delta Air Lines’ Sky Club at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, which measures roughly 39,700 square feet, as well as United Airlines’ 35,000-square-foot United Club at Denver International Airport.
Delta’s flagship JFK Sky Club includes a year-round Sky Deck overlooking the airfield, premium food offerings and multiple bars. United’s Denver lounge features two full-service bars, more than 600 seats and mountain views.
American Airlines is also expanding its lounge network. The carrier recently announced plans for a new Flagship Lounge and an expanded Admirals Club at Miami International Airport, a move that will nearly double its lounge space there. It also unveiled plans for a new Flagship Lounge and expanded Admirals Club facilities at Charlotte Douglas International Airport as part of its push to enhance premium travel experiences.
Alaska’s new lounge is part of a broader expansion strategy. The airline plans to open a new lounge in Portland this summer, followed by its first-ever lounge in San Diego and an upgraded facility in Honolulu, both expected in 2028.
For travelers, the trend reflects a broader shift in air travel. As airlines increasingly focus on premium experiences and loyalty programs, airport lounges are becoming more than just a place to wait for a flight. They’re becoming a destination in their own right.
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Clay Halton is an associate editor at Money.ca, covering a wide range of consumer-focused financial stories. He has over eight years of experience in digital publishing and has written and edited for outlets including PCMag and Investopedia.
