I think they're doing their best. It's not great, but it's a first world problem. The airline had to lower it's cost base - anyone criticising that has never run a company nor employed people.
Yes, we have. Even ones with 'customer service' as a core attribute.
HBA is getting a complete new terminal upgrade in the coming years with construction to start in a couple of years.
My understanding is that a new QF lounge will be incorporated into the new terminal.
Thanks - I missed that 'story' while I was away on a cruise. I've just caught up with some of the stories about it.
O/T, sorry - but what a joke! Do you know the history of HBA and it's 'master plans'? The last one - begun I think 7 years ago, started, went for a bit , then "Ooops, that's not going to work ... all stop" (pre covid). The hoardings are still up. Counting now on another runway upgrade for international air traffic - the one they did a couple of years ago wasn't sufficient - they can land international jets now, but they can't take off with a full load
. Nice one. Getting $60mill from the feds, but according to the airport CEO its going to cost "hundreds of millions of dollars". HBA have already said that governments are going to have to pay, as its an economic service and basic infrastructure for the state.
The new MP doesn't include air bridges (again) because, the CEO says "we like to welcome people to Tassie with our nice fresh air as soon as the aircraft door opens". You think he's not taking the pi** in total?
The MP 'now going to 'community consultation ....' etc etc. Do you know how that works in Tasmania? The NIMBYs and greens will swarm, object to consequent more aircraft, noise, pollution, car traffic, greenhouse gasses etc etc and the plan will be modified and compacted ('damn! its going to cost less') and ultimately only the barest minimum required to squeeze more pax through the place will be done.
If a terminal expansion does start, it will be done in stages, will take forever and I assure you retail will take priority over any airline lounges / lounge expansion. Why would Qantas want to pay more for an increased lounge footprint and running costs, AND pay the higher rent /sq m competing with money-making retail spaces? Their customers at HBA have put up with cough forever, so why should they get anything better now? Virgin has never had a lounge - again, why should they start now? Their customers have done without forever, so why spoil them now? "Will only put airfares up".
OK, call me cynical if you like
but observing how its gone for 45 years or so of flying out of HBA does teach you something ...