Teesside Airport launches direct lounge to aircraft boarding

The long-planned upgrade will see eligible SkyPriority KLM Royal Dutch Airlines passengers offered unique access to their aircraft – with a lounge host to escort customers on their journey via the exclusive Rockliffe Lounge.

This will give passengers more time to relax in the lounge before their flight, or to work remotely if travelling for business.

Talks are continuing with other airlines on rolling out the lounge boarding service to more passengers as the summer season ramps up.

The latest improvement comes after Teesside was the first airport in the UK to scrap the 100ml liquid restrictions at security thanks to scanner upgrades – making it even easier to catch a flight.

Chloe Hanlon, Head of Operations at Teesside, said she was delighted Teesside had achieved yet another UK first.

She said: “Be it through new scanners or lounge boarding, it’s great to see Teesside leading the charge and clocking yet another UK first.

“KLM and the airport have a close bond and we’re very pleased to offer Amsterdam passengers another way to enjoy their experience.

“I’d like to thank our airport team for all their efforts in getting the new boarding gate ready and we can’t wait to welcome our eligible KLM SkyPriority passengers to experience this new service.”

Jerome Salemi, General Manager of Air France-KLM UK & Ireland, mentions: “We would like to congratulate Teesside Airport on this great initiative.

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The introduction of direct lounge to aircraft access for eligible KLM SkyPriority passengers will offer even more convenience and comfort to the overall flying experience with KLM to Amsterdam and the rest of the world via our hub.”

Teesside was named UK and Irish Airport of the Year at the TTG Travel Industry Awards last year after winning recognition for its growth in flights and delivering a great passenger experience.

A state-of-the-art scan – available here – to offer those visiting Teesside Airport a real feel of the terminal has also been completed in recent weeks as the summer season kicks into gear.