Rewiew: Inside Delta’s Newest and Largest Sky Club in Atlanta

Delta Air Lines has pleasantly surprised its passengers by opening a brand-new Sky Club at its headquarters in Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. It’s impressive to see that there is enough space in one of the busiest and largest airports in the world to accommodate a substantial and enjoyable lounge. I had the opportunity to visit the lounge just ten days after its inauguration.

Location

Located in the center of Concourse D, near gate D18, the newly opened Delta Sky Club is situated on the upper floor of the terminal.

Photo: Courtesy of Delta Air Lines / Chiris Rank / Rank Studios

The airport recently received $1.4 billion to expand and enhance the concourse using innovative modular construction. As a result, Delta now has a dedicated level for this Sky Club, which is the second largest lounge at the airport.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Guests can check in at digital kiosks and then use elevators or walk up the stairs to reach the spacious venue. Spanning over 24,000 square feet, the lounge features panoramic views of the airfield, with floor-to-ceiling windows on both sides.

Access Options

I used one of the 15 passes that come with the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express card to enter the lounge within three hours of a domestic departure.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Cardholders can spend over $75,000, and frequent flyers have the option to purchase a 12-month membership for unlimited access.

The Lounge

With over 500 seats, this Sky Club is well-prepared to accommodate the large influx of travelers in what many refer to as the “mothership” of Delta.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Like other renovated Sky Clubs, the interior design features gleaming metallic fixtures, dark wood furnishings, and a wealth of unique artwork. However, it also incorporates a touch of Southern charm, evident in architectural details such as a brick entryway, shutter screens, and coffered ceilings.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

The shades of green, blue, and teal on the walls and chairs evoke a sense of nature and greenery, paying homage to Atlanta’s nickname, “City in a Forest.”

During my visit on a Sunday afternoon, this spacious rectangular club was pleasantly uncrowded. I had some difficulty deciding where to settle, but ultimately chose a single sofa in the corner, accompanied by a low side table and a movable standing tray.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

I was able to charge my phone, work on my laptop using the free Wi-Fi, and enjoy an early dinner before returning to New York.

I also picked up an artwork brochure to learn more about the diverse range of artists whose creations adorn the space, transforming the airport lounge into a contemporary art gallery that showcases local talent.

Food and Beverage

The bar, situated in the center of the lounge, offers a variety of alcoholic beverages, while two non-alcoholic drink stations are located at each end. A large buffet showcases hot dishes, salads, and sandwiches, with cornbread, sweet bread, and desserts available, reflecting the local Georgia culture.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Additionally, the event features proper tableware, including porcelain plates, bowls, and stainless-steel utensils, rather than disposable paper and plastic options. Employees circulate throughout the area to collect used dishes from the tables.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

I intended to reuse my plate after taking a few bites, but a staff member in a suit informed me that it wasn’t permitted and asked me to take a clean plate instead.

Amenities

The space features six glass phone booths, including one that is ADA compliant. A full TV wall displays various programs, and there are magazine racks and a printer available for business needs and entertainment.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Even the restrooms are beautifully decorated, boasting marbled walls, black tiles, and well-lit vanity mirrors. Each stall is equipped with red-and-green traffic lights above the doors to indicate occupancy.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Additionally, liquid soap and hand lotion from Grown Alchemist are provided on the granite countertops.

Verdict

The latest addition to the Delta Sky Club helps reduce crowding in the Delta terminal and enhances the premium brand image of the SkyTeam carrier.

The other Sky Clubs in Concourses A and C are next in line for renovations, and a Delta One Lounge is also planned.

Residents of Atlanta and frequent Delta travelers deserve updated lounge facilities, and the Concourse D Sky Club marks a fresh start in the centennial anniversary of Delta Air Lines.