Most people think airport lounges are these exclusive places reserved for fancy business class travellers or high-status airline members, where they can sip on expensive drinks and relax before their flights. But let me tell you, that’s not entirely true. But guess what? You can even get into these lounges with a budget airline ticket.
Let me break it down for you. Here’s an overview of how you can access the Hong Kong International Airport lounges as of October 2023. And trust me, it’s not as complicated as it seems.
Now, let’s debunk that myth and get you into the lounge, my friend. Grab that credit card, choose the right one, and voila! You’re in! Shall we begin?
Table of contents: Hong Kong airport lounge
- Plaza Premium Lounge: An independent airport lounge for everyone
- Which credit cards grant you free access to Plaza Premium Lounge?
- Free access to Plaza Premium Lounge with Priority Pass / LoungeKey
- Plaza Premium First: An Upgraded Plaza Premium Lounge
- The Centurion Lounge: Amex exclusive lounge
- oneworld airline lounge
- Star Alliance airport lounge
- Frequently Asked Questions: Hong Kong Airport Lounge
- Related articles
Airport lounges 101: 3 types of airport lounge
Before we start, let’s go through the basics of the airport lounge. In general, airport lounges come in 3 types that are open to different groups of people:
- First, you’ve got the ones run by airlines themselves. These lounges are mainly for their own passengers and those high-tier members of their alliances.
- Then you’ve got the credit card company lounges. These lounges cater to the customers of specific credit card companies.
- And finally, we’ve got the independent operators. These lounges are all about making that sweet profit, so they sell entry passes to credit card issuers or directly to users.
The 3 types basically summarise the usage methods for various Hong Kong airport lounges. The following sections will provide detailed explanations of the free methods to access each lounge.
Plaza Premium Lounge: An independent airport lounge for everyone
Plaza Premium Lounge is not your typical airport lounge that’s reserved for fancy business class travellers or high-status airline members. No, no, no. This is a lounge for anyone and everyone. Yes, even with a budget airline ticket, you can still get in.
As of October 2023, Hong Kong International Airport has 3 Plaza Premium Lounges. It’s actually easier to access than you might think. All you need is a valid boarding pass to get in. It’s as simple as that.
Plaza Premium Lounge offers more than just expensive drinks and a place to relax. They serve up delicious hot food like fish ball noodles, roasted meat rice, and handmade toast. Plus, there are comfy seats with charging ports. You can even book a shower to freshen up before your long-haul flight.
So, my friend, don’t believe the myth that airport lounges are only for the elite. Plaza Premium Lounge is here to debunk that myth and welcome everyone. Grab your boarding pass and come experience the comfort and convenience of Plaza Premium Lounge. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
| Airport Lounge Opening Time | ||
| Airport Lounge | Address | Opening Time |
| Plaza Premium Lounge | Near Gate 1, Level 6, Departures Level, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport | 06:30 – 01:00 daily |
| Plaza Premium Lounge | Level 6, Departures Level, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport (near Gate 35) | 23:00 – 15:00 daily |
| Plaza Premium Lounge | Level 7, Departures Level, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport (near Gate 60) | 06:00 – 01:00 daily |
Which credit cards grant you free access to Plaza Premium Lounge?
You can access Plaza Premium Lounge for free with the credit cards below. You don’t need any additional registrations or fancy memberships. Just present your eligible credit card, and voila! You’re granted free access to the Plaza Premium Lounge.
Check out which credit card is your best fit as your travelling companion:
| Credit Card | Annual Income Requirement | Complimentary Access Per Year | Can You Bring Guests? | Extra Requirement |
| Citi PremierMiles | HK$120,000 | 12 times | – | Spend HK$5,000 within 30 days^ after the visit. If the requirement is not met, HK$250 will be charged. |
| AE Explorer | HK$300,000 | 8 times | – | – |
| AE Platinum Card | HK$300,000 | Unlimited | 2 guests | – |
| Standard Chartered Cathay Mastercard – Priority Banking | HK$96,000 and HK$1,000,000 average daily relationship balance | 4 times | – | – |
(^Top-up value for electronic wallets such as PayMe and AliPay also qualifies as eligible spending.)
Citi Premier Miles Card
- Minimum Income Requirements
- HK$120,000
- Miles Conversion (local spend)
- HK$8 = 1 mile
- Miles Conversion (overseas spend)
- HK$3 = 1 mile
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Standard Chartered Cathay Mastercard-Priority-Banking
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- HK$2=1 mile
- Miles Conversion (Eligible spending on dining, hotels and overseas category)
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For more details, find out more in the blog post “Best Airport Lounge Credit Cards”.
Free access to Plaza Premium Lounge with Priority Pass / LoungeKey
Starting in June 2023, Priority Pass and LoungeKey have resumed their partnership with Plaza Premium Lounge at Hong Kong Airport. This means that you can now access Plaza Premium Lounge with a Priority Pass!
More about Priority Pass / LoungeKey
LoungeKey, just like Priority Pass, is a membership programme that allows credit card companies to customise partnerships with airport lounges. This means that there is a chance that a credit card with LoungeKey can be used for certain lounges, while another credit card with LoungeKey may not have access to those same lounges.
Keep in mind that you need to apply for LoungeKey in advance; simply holding the relevant credit card does not automatically grant access to the lounges.
Plaza Premium First: An Upgraded Plaza Premium Lounge
Plaza Premium First, known as the ultimate VIP lounge experience, is specifically designed for first-class travellers. Indulge in an exquisite dining experience at Plaza Premium First, where you can savour a wide variety of high-quality dishes, including the famous Beyond Meat Burger. The lounge offers a spacious and luxurious environment, surpassing the standard Plaza Premium Lounge.
| Plaza Premium First | Near Gate 1, Level 6, Departures Level, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport | 06:30 – 01:00 daily |
Plaza Premium First airport lounge price
We can purchase entry vouchers for Plaza Premium First, with prices ranging from HK$960 to HK$1,300.
| Plaza Premium First airport lounge Pass | Price |
| Plaza Premium First 3-hour pass | HK$960 |
| Plaza Premium First 5-hour pass | HK$1,080 |
| Plaza Premium First 8-hour pass | HK$1,200 |
| Plaza Premium First 10-hour pass | HK$1,300 |
The Centurion Lounge: Amex exclusive lounge
The Centurion Lounge at Hong Kong Airport is exclusive to American Express Platinum cardholders and Centurion members. It stands apart from the collaboration with Priority Pass or LoungeKey, making it accessible only to AMEX cardholders and their accompanying guests.
The privilege of free access extends to both primary and supplementary Platinum cardholders, with each cardholder being able to bring along 2 additional guests.
In the Platinum Card area, the American Express Centurion Lounge in Hong Kong offers a delightful array of 4-6 hot dishes, Movenpick ice cream, a selection of red and white wines, champagne, and refreshing cocktails. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to savour some delectable fish maw soup, perfect for those who’re waiting for their flight departure.
American Express Explorer Credit Card
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- Min. Annual Salary
- HK$300,000
- Miles Conversion (Eligible Local Transaction)*
- HK$4.5 = 1 Mile
- Complimentary Plaza Premium Lounge Access
- 8 times per Calendar Year
American Express Platinum Credit Card
- Min. Annual Salary
- HK$300,000
- Miles Conversion (overseas spend)
- $6 = 1 Mile
- Miles Conversion (local spend)
- $6 = 1 Mile
oneworld airline lounge
When it comes to airline lounges, Hong Kong serves as a major hub for oneworld airlines, including Cathay Pacific. With numerous lounges available, let’s dive into the different lounges at Hong Kong Airport and how they can be accessed.
As a hub for Cathay Pacific and oneworld, Hong Kong Airport offers a range of lounges catering to different needs and memberships. From The Wing to The Pier, each lounge provides a comfortable and relaxing environment for travellers.
| Lounge | Location | Opening Time |
| The Wing Business Class | Level 6, Terminal 1, near Gates 1-4 | 05:30 until last departure |
| The Wing First Class | Level 7, Terminal 1, near Gates 1-4 | 05:30 until last departure |
| The Deck Business Class | Level 7, Terminal 1, near Gate 6 | 05:30 – 00:30, daily |
| The Pier Business Class | Level 6, Terminal 1, near Gate 65 | 05:30 – 00:30, daily |
| The Pier First Class | Level 6, Terminal 1, near Gate 63 | 05:30 – 00:30, daily |
| The Qantas Hong Kong Lounge | Level 7, Terminal 1, near Gate 15 | Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday: 12 midday until 11 p.m.
Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday: 7.30 a.m. until 11 p.m. |
| The Bridge Business Class | Permanently closed | — |
The Wing / The Deck / The Pier Airport Lounge
Let me take you on a journey to The Pier, the business class lounge of Cathay Pacific Airways. This place is a paradise for food lovers. Picture this: freshly cooked dan dan noodles and wonton noodles, flowing drinks, and a tea house where you can sip on a pot of hot tea to soothe your soul.
When it comes to facilities, The Pier sets the bar high among all the lounges in Hong Kong. With over 10 bathrooms, you won’t have to wait long for your turn. But wait, there’s more! The Pier First Class Lounge takes luxury to a whole new level with its massage services and a la carte dining options.
The Qantas Hong Kong Lounge
If you’re looking for a hidden gem, the Qantas Hong Kong Lounge is a lesser-known oneworld lounge that offers a comfortable and tranquil experience. It’s perfect for those travelling in business class with Cathay Pacific, Qantas, or Japan Airlines.
How can you get access to the oneworld airline lounge?
So, whether you’re enjoying a premium class ticket or simply want to access the lounge with the right credit card, there’s a world of comfort and convenience waiting for you in the Hong Kong Airport lounges.
Taking business / first class flight with oneworld airline
The most straightforward way to access these airport lounges is by purchasing a Business Class or First Class ticket from oneworld airlines such as Cathay Pacific, British Airways, or Japan Airlines. Even if you’re not flying on a Cathay Pacific-operated flight, holding a British Airways Business Class ticket allows you to access Cathay Pacific lounges due to their alliance partnership.
Redeeming miles for a business or first class ticket
Another option is to redeem your miles for a business or first class ticket, which also grants access to the relevant lounges. There are various routes and mileage requirements for these redemption options.
Here is the reference for the required miles for a business or first class ticket:
| Airline | Route | Cabin Class | ASIA MILES |
| Cathay Pacific | Hong Kong to Taipei, Manila | Business | 16,000 |
| Cathay Pacific | Hong Kong to Bangkok, Singapore, Beijing | Business | 28,000 |
| Cathay Pacific | Hong Kong to Tokyo | Business | 32,000 |
| Cathay Pacific | Hong Kong to Dubai | Business | 58,000 |
| Cathay Pacific | Hong Kong to London | Business | 84,000 |
Joining oneworld membership
So, if you’re a frequent flyer, an overseas student, or a business traveller, you might qualify for oneworld membership. With this membership, along with travelling on oneworld member flights, you can enjoy free access to oneworld lounges. The number of guests you can bring along varies depending on your membership level, allowing you to share comfort and convenience with your companions.
You can level up your membership by earning miles when taking flights with oneworld airline members. The oneworld alliance includes the following airlines:
| oneworld airlines members overview | ||
| American Airlines | British Airways | Cathay Pacific |
| Qantas | Japan Airlines | Qatar Airways |
| Finnair | Iberia | Malaysia Airlines |
| Royal Jordanian | S7 Airlines | SriLankan Airlines |
| Royal Air Maroc | Alaska Airlines | |
If you’ve immigrated, studied abroad, or frequently travel for business, chances are you’ve accumulated high-status memberships with airlines. With these memberships and when flying on oneworld member flights, you can indulge in the luxury of oneworld lounges at no cost.
| Lounge | oneworld Sapphire | oneworld Emerald |
| The Wing Business Class | Passenger and 1 guest | Passenger and 1 guest |
| The Wing First Class | N/A | Passenger and 1 guest |
| The Deck Business Class | Passenger and 1 guest | Passenger and 1 guest |
| The Pier Business Class | Passenger and 1 guest | Passenger and 1 guest |
| The Pier First Class | N/A | Passenger and 1 guest |
Note that if you hold a oneworld membership, you can access the oneworld airport lounge regardless of which airline you are flying with.
Access Cathay Pacific Lounge with Asia Miles
If you’re a member of Cathay Pacific, it doesn’t matter which airline or cabin class you’re flying; you can use 9,000 or 12,000 Asia Miles to redeem entry vouchers to Cathay Pacific Business Class or First Class lounges, respectively.
Star Alliance airport lounge
Star Alliance brings you not one, but 2 fabulous lounges at Hong Kong Airport. Step into the world of luxury and comfort, courtesy of Singapore Airlines and United Airlines.
Just like oneworld lounges, the concept remains the same: you must be flying on a Star Alliance flight or hold a Star Alliance airline membership to access these exclusive lounges.
| Airport Lounge | Location |
| SilverKris Lounge | Level 6, Main Departure Hall, near Gate 5 |
| United Club | Level 7, Terminal 1, near Gate 61 |
Taking business / first Class flight with Star Alliance airline
One way to access these lounges is by purchasing a Business Class or First Class ticket from a Star Alliance member; another way is to redeem your miles for a Business Class or First Class ticket using the frequent flyer programmes of ANA Mileage Club or LifeMiles, which are commonly used airlines within the Star Alliance network.
Frequently asked questions: Hong Kong Airport Lounge
Can I take a shower at Plaza Premium Lounge?
Yes, you can, but you need to make a reservation at the front desk before using the shower facilities. However, please note that there are limited shower rooms available, so there might be a chance that you have to wait.
Can I visit multiple Cathay Pacific lounges on the same day?
Yes, theoretically, you can visit The Pier First Class Lounge for a massage and then go to The Wing First Class Lounge for a soak in the bathtub. However, for business class lounges, the food and services provided are quite similar, so it may not be necessary to go through the hassle.
Can I bring children to Plaza Premium Lounge?
Yes, children under 2 years old can enter for free, and children between 2 and 11 years old will be charged at a discounted rate of 30% off.
Can I bring guests for free to Plaza Premium Lounge?
If you hold the American Express Platinum Card, you can bring 2 guests with you to use the Plaza Premium Lounge for free. If you have 2 credit cards that provide access to the Plaza Premium Lounge (such as Citi PremierMiles / AE Explorer), in most cases, you can use your name to sign in twice and bring 1 guest with you to the lounge.
Where is the AE Centurion Lounge located in Hong Kong?
The Centurion Lounge is located on the 7th floor near Gate 60 of Terminal 1 at Hong Kong International Airport. It can be accessed by taking a driverless train after completing the departure procedures.
Can I bring guests for free to the AE Centurion Lounge in Hong Kong?
Yes, both the primary and supplementary cardholders of the American Express Platinum Card can use the Centurion Lounge for free, and they can bring along 2 friends to use the lounge as well.
Related articles
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Wanna stay ahead of the herd? Let’s check out the MoneySmart blog for more financial tips!
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