British Airways Plans Major London Heathrow Lounge Overhaul, First Updates by 2027

British Airways has formally announced plans to redesign all of its lounges at London Heathrow Airport, one of the carrier's largest lounge investments in history. Reported by One Mile at a Time, the project includes opening a new lounge and will take years to complete.

**New Galleries Lounge in Terminal 5C**

The airline will open a new Galleries Lounge in Terminal 5C, the furthest pier in Terminal 5 that currently has no lounge. Expected to open in late 2028, the lounge will be inspired by flight and British design, with materials sourced from across the UK. It will feature a 17-meter bar, likely among the longest airport lounge bars, plus dining, relaxation, work spaces, pre-flight showers, and apron views.

**Updated Arrivals Lounge**

The redesigned Arrivals Lounge is scheduled for a refurbishment starting in early 2027, with an opening later that year. It will include a coffee bar and deli, larger dining areas, quiet relaxation zones, work booths, 59 shower suites, and shared dressing and preparation areas. First class customers will get a new Concorde arrivals experience with private cabanas and a la carte dining.

**First Class Check-In at Terminal 3**

British Airways and American Airlines will debut a new first class check-in experience at Terminal 3 this winter. The facility will offer more private and stylish spaces with seating and updated design.

**Long Timeline Ahead**

British Airways currently operates eight lounges between Terminal 5 and Terminal 3. The first project is the arrivals lounge in late 2027, followed by the new 5C lounge in late 2028. That leaves seven more lounges to update. Based on the pace, the full overhaul could stretch into the mid-2030s. Rumors suggest the lounge organization may change, including a possible relocation of the Concorde Room, but no details have been confirmed.

British Airways CEO Sean Doyle said in a statement: "This investment is a major milestone in the evolution of our lounges and reflects our ambition to create a more connected and consistent customer journey." He added that the airline aims to "deliver a more premium, seamless experience for our customers."

What this means for you: If you fly British Airways through Heathrow, the first updates won't arrive for at least three years, and the full lounge transformation could take a decade or more.

• airline lounges
• arrivals lounge
• British Airways
• London Heathrow
• lounge renovation
• Sean Doyle
• Terminal 5