I have not been paid by any entity in any way (financially, benefits) to write this Brussels Airlines THE LOFT Lounge review. Take precautions when traveling; please stay safe and consult local, state, and national authorities for guidance on traveling.
Brussels Airlines operates three signature lounges at their hub airport, named THE LOFT, Sunrise, and THE VIEW. Having just arrived from Copenhagen and missing out on breakfast at the lounge there, I was looking forward to getting a bite in before my flight to Washington Dulles.
Quick Take: Brussels Airlines THE LOFT Lounge Review
| Category | Rating (Out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Atmosphere & Design | ✅ 9/10 |
| Food & Beverage | ✅ 7/10 |
| Seating & Layout | ✅ 9/10 |
| Wi-Fi & Connectivity | ✅ 8/10 |
| Cleanliness & Comfort | ✅ 7/10 |
One of Brussels’ flagship lounges didn’t disappoint, and that was in its own way surprising, given my experiences flying on Brussels.
Lounge Info
- Lounge Name: Brussels Airlines THE LOFT Lounge
- Location: Pier A, across from gate A42 (Schengen Area)
- Operating Hours: 5:00AM – 9:00PM daily
Access Policy
- Entry process: You must present an eligible boarding pass for entry.
- Who can enter: HON Circle, LH or LX First Class, Senator, Frequent Traveller, Star Alliance Gold members, Star Alliance Business Class passengers, Brussels Airlines Premium Economy passengers for a 39 EUR fee, Brussels Airlines Economy passengers for a 49 EUR fee.
- Guest policy: Guest access varies according to your ticketed cabin and your frequent flyer status.
- Credit cards or memberships accepted: None outlined.
Today, I entered THE LOFT thanks to my Star Alliance Gold status, which is a benefit of being a United Premier 1K. I would have had access as a Premium Economy passenger with Brussels Airlines, but would have required a payment of 39 EUR for entry. Also seems like some airBaltic and Finnair passengers have access. Right next door is the Diamond Lounge, which is a contract lounge run by Brussels Airport for other passengers and airlines.
Atmosphere & Seating
THE LOFT has a modern and minimalistic atmosphere that you’ll find across Europe.
The lounge spans 2,040 square meters or 22,000 square feet, and accommodates up to 500 guests. There are fantastic views of the ramp from the lounge, with plenty of seating options throughout. I chose to sit in a seating area that had deep lounge chairs that were a bit worn by comfortable, with those amazing views.
The lounge is operated in conjunction with Lexus, and as such there is a Lexus section in the lounge for guests to browse.
The lounge features various seating areas throughout. While I chose to sit by the windows, there are plenty of other spaces that may fit different travelers’ needs.
There are desk areas for those looking to work.
There were also more private desk areas.
Loungers can be found around the lounge for those seeking more comfort.
There are also more seating areas throughout the lounge.
If you’re a HON Circle Member, you can access the HON Circle kitchen area, which includes a dedicated seating area but the same refreshments that can be found throughout the lounge.
Food & Beverage
THE LOFT had several food and coffee stations throughout the space.
Since it was morning, more traditional breakfast fare was available.
This included cold cereals, pastries, fruits, etc.
You also had hot foods, including scrambled eggs, baked beans, tomatoes, and potatoes.
Additionally, there were juice stations, coffee stations, and alcoholic beverages available, all of which seemed to be self-serve.
Wi-Fi & Connectivity
Complimentary wifi was available, and you had to sign up with their username and password.
Cleanliness & Facilities
The lounge overall was kept tidy and clean, and the restrooms were serviceable and in good condition.
Amenities
This lounge is equipped with a great variety of amenities. This really took the lounge up another notch and impressed.
THE LOFT has a kids’ corner, where families can spend time in a kid-oriented playroom with a variety of toys.
Also available were two massage chairs, which weren’t really used (except by yours truly), and are first-come, first-served. .
There were also nap rooms available, which came with pillows and a wrapped blanket. These are also first-come, first-served.
The restrooms were very nice, featuring Japanese-style toilets.
And their instruction manual.
Shower suites were also available, although I didn’t use one on this visit.
All these amenities could be found in the “Spa” area of the lounge.
Other amenities included conference rooms.
And finally, a Neuhaus chocolate station.
Brussels Airlines THE LOFT Lounge Final Thoughts & Verdict
THE LOFT Lounge in Brussels is a premium lounge that definitely lives up to the expectations of a flagship lounge. Although I didn’t believe that the food was winning any awards, the rest of the lounge, from its layout to its amenities, makes it a fantastic place to relax, recharge, and refresh.
- Is it worth arriving early to visit this lounge? Yes. The dining experience may not be anything to look forward to (at least in the morning), but the massage chairs, sleeping room, and shower suites make it a great place to recharge before your next flight.
- What sets it apart? The amenities. Although I had low expectations, given my experience with Brussels, this lounge really wowed me with what it has to offer. I’d venture to say this is better than the Lufthansa Senator Lounge in Munich in terms of amenities, and competes with the United Polaris Lounge, but falls short due to the dining.
Overall Rating: 8/10
What are your thoughts? Have you been to the THE LOFT in Brussels? Let me know in the comments!
As always, Live Life One Trip at a Time!
