Executive lounges in the LF Wade International Airport’s departures area have officially opened, Bermuda Skyport announced.

TAV Operation Services Ltd and Graycliff Divans Bermuda Ltd have formed a joint venture – TAV-GD Operation Services Ltd – to operate the Bermuda Primeclass lounges.

Skyport said the partnership combines the award-winning international lounge hospitality services of TAV with the local knowledge and knowhow of Graycliff, which operated the lounge at the old terminal.

Aaron Adderley, president, Bermuda Skyport, said: “Having successfully navigated the myriad of challenges the pandemic has presented, we are excited to see our investment through, and officially open the Bermuda Primeclass lounges here at the LF Wade International Airport.

“The lounges are bright, airy, modern and state-of-the-art, which fit the theme of our new airport terminal. We are especially pleased that a Bermuda business was able to partner with an industry leading company with immense experience operating airport lounges around the world.

“We look forward to our lounge guests enjoying a first-class experience in our new, world-class terminal.”

Güçlü Batkın, CEO, TAV Operation Services, said: "We are thrilled to welcome passengers in Bermuda, the heart of the North Atlantic. We will be offering our guests a superior level of hospitality and unique travel experience in our lounges.

“We believe the rebound post-Covid will be positive thanks to Bermuda’s key position in North American leisure traffic.

“The opening of Bermuda Primeclass lounges will be our third destination in North America. We believe our presence in Bermuda’s LF Wade International Airport will fortify a fundamental role in our growth in the region, and sights are set on further locations in the near future.”

He added: “I appreciate the effective co-operation of Skyport in the opening of the lounges. I’d like to acknowledge our local business partner with whom we joined forces to achieve strong business results.

“Bermuda Primeclass lounges will become a crucial and memorable part of the unique Bermudian experience.”

Aaron Smith, president, Graycliff Divans Bermuda Ltd, said: “My co-director, Glen Wilks, and I are excited to be able to enter into a joint venture to operate the airport executive lounges with TAV.

“Not only do they bring vast experience and knowledge as an international lounge partner, but they also provide access to an extensive network that will benefit Bermudian and visiting passengers and guests.”

Primeclass lounges consist of two primary spaces, one at each end of the departure concourses.

The US lounge has capacity for 66 guests within a 2,605 square foot area, while the international lounge has capacity for 89 guests within 3,864 square feet.

Both lounges welcome guests with a concierge reception desk and an open lobby area.

Skyport said the spaces are arranged to take advantage of the stunning views and landscape beyond the walls. Natural light showcases the soft pastels and sun-washed neutral colours.

It said Bermuda's classic island architecture is reflected in lime-washed teak floors accented with honed black and white marble accents. Contemporary interpretations of traditional forms and materials are used to combine heritage with the modern.

Skyport said the lounges’ culinary selection and lively Bacardi inspired bars aim to let customers enjoy their farewell gastronomic island experience.

Primeclass lounges also include amenities such as meeting areas and showers.

Passengers can access the Primeclass lounges with airline passes, loyalty cards and corporate affiliations or purchase a pass on arrival for $49.