SkyTeam Reopens Fully Renovated Vancouver Lounge with Local Flavors and Panoramic Views

After years of complaints about cracked leather seats and tired décor, SkyTeam has officially completed a long-overdue refurbishment of its international lounge at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The updated lounge, located near Gate 53 in Concourse D, now welcomes SkyTeam Elite Plus, First, and Business Class passengers with a more elegant design, upgraded furniture, improved zoning, and a distinctly Pacific Northwest flavor.

Photo: Courtesy of SkyTeam

“We’re proud to unveil the revitalized SkyTeam Lounge at Vancouver International Airport, a space that reflects our updated brand identity and ongoing commitment to delivering the best possible experience for our customers,” said Patrick Roux, CEO of SkyTeam. “Whether travelers are looking to unwind, work or enjoy a bite to eat before their flight, the refreshed YVR Lounge offers a welcoming and comfortable environment designed for their needs.”

Why the Renovation Mattered

Vancouver’s international terminal has long lacked lounge variety, especially outside the Air Canada ecosystem. For travelers flying SkyTeam carriers such as Delta, KLM, Korean Air, and Air France—or even Priority Pass members—the SkyTeam Lounge has been the primary space to recharge before a long-haul flight. But in recent years, its condition had deteriorated dramatically.

Photo: Courtesy of SkyTeam

The lounge, which opened in 2017, had aged far more quickly than expected. Many frequent flyers described it as one of the most worn-down lounges in North America. Images circulated online of peeling leather seats and hard plastic chairs in poor condition. Despite decent food and friendly staff, the space had earned a reputation for neglect.

What’s New Inside

The 528-square-meter (5,680 sq. ft.) lounge is now fully revitalized. Visitors will immediately notice a brighter, more modern look across both wings of the space. Large windows offer panoramic views of the runway and nearby mountains, while new layouts separate work, dining, and relaxation zones more thoughtfully than before.

Photo: Courtesy of SkyTeam

One wing is now fully dedicated to freshening up and dining. Shower suites are available on a first-come, first-served basis—an essential perk for long-haul travelers—and the food selection has expanded. A fresh noodle bar complements a rotating buffet of hot and cold items created with local ingredients.

The other wing features a variety of seating options, all newly installed, with dedicated areas for working or simply relaxing with a drink. A self-service bar offers beers from local Vancouver microbreweries and wines sourced from across the Pacific Northwest, reflecting a commitment to showcasing regional flavors.

A Taste of the Pacific Northwest

SkyTeam has placed a strong emphasis on sourcing local. Business travelers will find everything from Pacific salmon to artisanal beers, alongside globally inspired hot and cold dishes. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the buffet is refreshed throughout the day. Meanwhile, the wine list and bar have been curated to reflect the region’s character, appealing to both international travelers and those headed home.

Photo: Courtesy of SkyTeam

“As SkyTeam’s first lounge in North America, the YVR Lounge offers a taste of local and international flavors,” the alliance said. “More local flavors can be found at the self-service bar with vintages selected from wineries along the Pacific Northwest and beers sourced from some of Vancouver’s finest microbreweries.”

Open 24/7, Serving 8 SkyTeam Airlines

The lounge is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and serves passengers flying internationally with Aeromexico, Air France, China Airlines, China Eastern, Delta Air Lines, KLM, Korean Air, and Xiamen Airlines. Priority Pass members with access rights can also enjoy the lounge when space permits.

Photo: Courtest of Vancouver International Airport.

This renovation marks a significant improvement for a facility that had great structural potential but had fallen into disrepair. With updated interiors, thoughtful service zones, and a strong local culinary identity, the new-look SkyTeam Lounge at Vancouver is now far more aligned with the expectations of global business travelers.

For those connecting to Asia, Europe, or South America through YVR, it’s once again a lounge worth arriving early for.