people standing around computer to enter lounge — Source: Star Alliance

Star Alliance Rio (GIG) Lounge Now Offering Paid Entry Access

Star Alliance has expanded the paid entry option to their Rio De Janeiro (GIG) Brazil lounge. This addition makes Rio their third lounge to offer paid entry access, following Buenos Aires (EZE) and Los Angeles (LAX). This paid access option is now offered to passengers on Star Alliance member airlines, regardless of cabin class or membership status.

At Star Alliance we are always looking to see how we can do more to offer passengers a seamless, great experience. Adding Rio De Janeiro as the third Star Alliance lounge to offer paid access is in line with this. Now, more passengers can relax and indulge in this beautiful space before a flight.
Star Alliance VP Customer Experience Christian Draeger

The Rio De Janeiro lounge is located in Terminal 2 - Level 3 of the new international departures pier (terminal). The lounge offers impressive views of famous landmarks such as Rio’s downtown, Sugar Loaf Mountain, and the majestic statue of Christ the Redeemer. The lounge also offers showers, refreshments, drinks and can accommodate up to 150 guests.

bar with bartender making drinks and 3 people sitting at the bar — Bartender making drinks at the GIG Lounge (Source: Star Alliance)

Those who already have free access to the lounge can now purchase access vouchers for family members, friends, or colleagues traveling together so that their entire party can enjoy the lounge and relax before a flight. Lounge entry vouchers are priced from $55 for a three-hour visit. Passengers will also gain a discount if they are a member of a Star Alliance airline’s frequent flyer program. To book a lounge go to the Star Alliance Lounge Access page for pricing and details.

Star Alliance currently has six branded lounges in its network, including Amsterdam (AMS), Paris (CDG), Rome (FCO), plus the above-mentioned Buenos Aires (EZE), Los Angeles (LAX), and Rio (GIG) locations. Star Alliance is also exploring extending the paid access option to their other lounges.

Press Release: https://www.staralliance.com/en/news-article?...

Closing Thoughts

I think this is great news! I am a Star Alliance Silver member and am curious about the discount offered for lounge access. The LAX location is one of the lounges I have wanted to visit for a long time. I do like that this paid option that allows Gold members to bring others with them. I think family access to a lounge should be offered to everyone, meaning if I have 2 kids (18 and younger) with me they should be allowed to come into the lounge with me.