Oakland International Airport Cuts Ribbon on its Great Escape

Oakland International Airport (OAK) officially cut the ribbon Jan. 24, on its first premium passenger lounge. The Escape Lounge by Manchester Airports Group (MAG) opened its doors at OAK during the holiday season. The new common-use facility, located post security in Terminal 1 adjacent to Gate 8, features fresh, local fare by renowned Oakland chef and restaurateur, Chris Pastena, who brings over 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry to the development of the breakfast, lunch, and dinner options for lounge users. Pastena has been a staple in the Bay Area food scene for decades and currently owns Chop Bar, Lungomare and Calavera in Oakland.

Attendees at today’s VIP event, and customers who happen to be frequenting the lounge between noon and 2PM, will witness remarks by the Port of Oakland Board of Commissioners President, Michael Colbruno; MAG USA President and CEO Rosemarie Andolino; and the Oakland International Airport’s Director of Aviation Bryant L. Francis.

“Both the Airport, and the Port of Oakland have enjoyed sustained growth momentum brought forth by the arrival of more passengers, more destinations, and more upgrades to the amenities we have to offer our customers within our terminals,” noted Bryant L. Francis. “The opening of the Escape Lounge comes at the perfect time as we see our international traffic expanding and our passenger traffic numbers soaring. We’re always looking for ways to improve the travel experience for our customers, and the Escape Lounge does just that.”

For an admission fee of $45 per customer, all airline passengers traveling through OAK have the opportunity to experience stylish and contemporary furnishings; an extensive complimentary locally inspired menu; a wide array of unlimited complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including local coffee brand RoastCo; flight information screens; free high-speed Wi-Fi; a relaxed atmosphere; and a selection of reading materials. Premium cabin customers aboard Norwegian Air traveling nonstop to London-Gatwick, Oslo, and Stockholm, as well as upcoming service to Copenhagen and Barcelona, enjoy complimentary use of the Escape Lounge prior to departure.