AirSpace Lounge at JFK's T5

The Independent Lounge for T5 Customers

Last week I was able to check out the AirSpace Lounge at JFK which opened up this summer. The lounge is independently owned and operated so anyone can purchase a day pass ($20-25, or free for Amex Platinum cardholders) that allows them to use any of the locations during a single day. In total, the off peak morning pass ran me about $27 after all was said and done. Sometimes passes may be more, as the cost is tied to how crowded the lounge is at any given time to prevent overcrowding and maintain a nice atmosphere.

The main lounge area

Upon arriving I gave my name only to find out that I needed to have my reservation number in order to check in. Somehow I had never received the email with the number and could only log in to the site and show a less than useful order history page to the two young ladies working the counter. They sympathized with me and after a call to their manager let me in despite the lack of official confirmation number. 

Although I was short on time and didn't get to spend more than a few minutes in the lounge (thank you, NYC subways) it was a pleasant experience. I was one of only two other people there at 9AM on a Saturday morning and was able to quickly secure my much needed screwdriver and chex-mix snacks at the bar once I was inside. The overall size of the lounge is smaller than most, but comes equipped with a usual fruit/tea/coffee station, tables, two laptops for use, a meeting room off to the side, and comfortable seating spread throughout. 

The entry to the lounge includes a $10 credit for any extra food or drink beyond the complimentary snacks. While I spent mine on a cocktail ($8), there are plenty of reasonably priced options on the menu that were also tempting - and may have won over if I didn't have a flight so soon.

Overall it was a positive experience, though I do wish I skipped going inside and instead opted for the opportunity to use my already purchased pass anytime in the next 3 months instead of my original reservation date. This isn't a lounge that is worth the cost unless you're going to be there at least an hour or more due to the cost, but it's a great option if you need to kill some serious time.

 - John