Blowin’ in the wind – Chicago O’Hare T5, BA Terraces First Lounge
Index:
- Don’t go you go anywhere else that’s remotely different?
- To Manchester Airport, British Airways Terraces Lounge
- American Airlines AA55 Manchester Airport to Chicago O’Hare International Airport
- Automated Processing Chaos
- Crowne Plaza O’Hare
- Intstawalk: State Street Chicago
- Hyatt Regency O’Hare
- A wind of change
- Chicago O’Hare Terminal 5, British Airways Terraces First Lounge
- British Airways BA9294 Chicago O’Hare to London Heathrow
- British Airways Arrivals Lounge London Heathrow
- Virgin Trains London Euston to Birmingham New Street
- The Answer My Friend Is Blowin’ in the wind…
With a reissued ticket in my hands, it was time to explore the re-imaged Terminal 5. And it’s changed a tiny bit since I was here last in the days of British Midland Airways.
The main check-in area hasn’t changed a lot – still lots of white and skylights, making an airy space.
The main check-in space
BA Check-in area
With the formalities complete, it was time to clear security – which has been moved a lot further forward. In the past the food court and some shopping was in-front of security. Now, it’s all behind the glass…
… where of course, the TSA reside. I was passing through at a quiet point, so I was through in a matter of minutes (even with a manual pat-down).
It seems the City of Chicago have paid attention to other airports in the world… and have placed a Duty Free shop which is past security. On the plus side, there is plenty of room to navigate beyond it
What’s the term? Last chance to buy…
Once through the duty-free maze, you’re out into the food court area which has been tarted up a lot with new food outlets and relaxed seating – a major step up from the old food court.
Outlets
Dining area
And art. Because everyone loves art
I’ll give the airport this – it’s one hell of an improvement. In the past, there was almost nothing beyond security, with mobile booths for alcohol, and the odd outlet. Now, it’s a lot more organised and a much more pleasant place to stay before heading to the gate.
Whilst they’ve improved the main post-security area, O’Hare T5 looks the same as it ever did beyond that main concourse as you head for the gate.
Familiar sights. Not much change beyond here.
However, I was in the mood for some bubbles after all that rebooking. So it was off to the British Airways Terraces First Lounge for a bit.
Entering the lounge, I was blipped in… and almost wish I went to the other lounge. Why? It was narrow, and very few spare seats
First Class Lounge. Really?
Food selection was limited – mostly concentrating on snacks rather than buffet style food. Still, it was a reasonable selection for an evening flight
…. and snacks on top (still way too narrow of a lounge).
Sandwiches
Cheese and salad items.
Items in jars… check.
Lots of top-shelf alcohol for those who enjoyed it.
And of course, being a first class lounge, there are bubbles.
It was bubbley.
As the lounge was busy, it wasn’t overly relaxing – even though it was quiet. It gave me an Internet connection though – which was important as I had to book a ticket for the trip home. Thankfully even as midnight was near ticking over in the UK, I was able to secure a £11 ticket home. Not ideal, but hey – it’s better than paying full price.
With that done, and some nibbles confused, BA0294 was called – and it was time to leave the city of Chicago. I packed my trash up, and headed for the gate.
Heading to the gate, it was turning from new O’Hare T5 back to the old terminal.
Although this is a nice addition for passenger experience.
Boarding was in full swing by the time I arrived at the gate, and I headed straight for fast track. With a happy beep, I was allowed to head down to the waiting Boeing 747-400…
Next: BA0924 Chicago O’Hare to London Heathrow
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