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What Is It Like to Visit the Oneworld Business Lounge at LAX?

Our review of the airline alliance’s flagship lounge inside Tom Bradley International Terminal

by Benjamin Chiang

November 15, 2024

Photo: Courtesy of Qantas

Managed jointly by Qantas, British Airways, and Cathay Pacific, this Oneworld Business Lounge at Los Angeles International Airport offers a spacious and sophisticated environment for alliance elites and business class passengers.

Location

Located on Tom Bradley International Terminal’s (TBIT) fifth floor, the lounge is in the main concourse, directly above the departure level.

Photo: TBIT. Courtesy of Los Angeles International Airport

Guests can take an elevator or escalator up and simply turn right to find the entrance.

Access Options

Flyers with Oneworld Sapphire status can access the lounge when traveling in any cabin on both international and domestic routes.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

However, Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan and American Airlines AAdvantage elite members are not eligible for entry on domestic flights.

I had a business class ticket on Cathay Pacific, which included a lounge invitation. I have visited this lounge a few times before while flying business class with Air France and KLM, as these two SkyTeam sister carriers had a contract with the Oneworld lounge before opening their own facilities a few months ago.

The Lounge

The single-floor site occupies 42,000 square feet and wraps around an inner atrium, divided into several sections. On the right, there is a bar, while the buffet is situated in the middle, and a quiet zone is located on the far left.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Throughout the spacious club, guests will find various seating options, including sofas, dining chairs, and reclining chaises with ottomans, catering to every need, from working and eating to relaxing. The color scheme features warm coffee tones such as black, caramel, latte, and honey, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Beyond the bar, a circular sunken lounge with a fire pit in the center fosters a sense of community. On the left side, a short granite wall topped with snake plants separates the walkway from the seating area, which includes a long conference table and several TVs.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

As you proceed further, the corridors are lined with comfortable chairs and individual sofas, surrounding the terminal courtyard where natural light pours in through the glass windows. Backlit curtains on some walls enhance the serene vibe, providing a restful environment for weary travelers.

Food and Beverage

The two buffet counters offer a variety of warm dishes, soups, mixed salads, and desserts. However, during my recent visits, the food has been somewhat underwhelming. I’ve found myself trying only a few quick bites and saving room for inflight meals instead.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Beverage stations next to the buffet provide the usual options, including a coffee machine, an assortment of teas, and two soda dispensers.

The bar, styled with black subway tiles and equipped with high chairs, is staffed by bartenders who can create specialty drinks, such as the Oneworld 25th anniversary cocktails.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Chilled bottles of wine are available for self-service in ice buckets on the countertop.

Amenities

At both ends, there are restrooms and nine shower suites.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

A playroom for kids and a business center with workstations and a printer are great additions for children and adults. Free Wi-Fi is available for everyone.

Verdict

The Oneworld Business Lounge, located at one of the busiest airports in the U.S., serves as a unique retreat for travelers. This spacious venue can accommodate up to 600 people and offers all the essential amenities to meet the needs of its visitors.