Feb. 17--American Airlines international business-class passengers at O'Hare International Airport will soon be able to kill time in an upgraded lounge.
The Fort Worth, Texas-based airline, which earned record profits last year, said Wednesday that it will expand and renovate its Flagship Lounges at six U.S. airports, including O'Hare, and will allow more fliers to use them.
Among other things, the new lounges will have showers and more power outlets to recharge personal devices.
"It will be much bigger than our current space because, beginning next year, we will expand the admittance to international business-class passengers, not just international first-class passengers," American spokesperson Leslie Scott said. "The current Flagship Lounge is 4,000 square feet, and while we don't have specific square footage for the new lounge, it's safe to say that it will be much bigger."
Construction at O'Hare will start later this year.
Fine dining will also be added at some American airport lounges.
Although American's O'Hare lounge isn't among those getting fine dining, the airline said additional healthier cold and hot food and beverage options will be added to more lounges, prepared by chefs in kitchens.
The Flagship Lounges are different from the Admirals Club, which is based on membership.
byerak@tribpub.com
