The new S4 satellite, with a capacity of almost eight million passengers and reserved for long-haul traffic, will open its doors in earnest on 28 June. The new structure, billed as "the most beautiful boarding lounge in Europe", nevertheless already displayed its assets on Thursday 21 June, at a presentation organised by Aéroports de Paris and Air France. These new arguments will be particularly appreciated by business travellers, for whom Air France is launching the largest lounge in its network: 3,000 m² of park-like facilities, with modern equipment for both work and relaxation, and capable of accommodating up to 600 people. Free Wi-Fi access, of course, but also touch-screen tablets - 150 eventually, giving access to the French and international press - and self-service computers will be available to professionals on the move. They will also be able to take advantage of the show's peaceful atmosphere to relax, discover the new Spa, and sample the fine cuisine on offer. "The opening of S4 and the largest Air France lounge marks a turning point in the history of our hub," said Alexandre de Juniac, CEO of Air France, on 21 June.
These are therefore significant steps forward, forming part of the “Hub 2012” project, which brings together all Air France traffic, as well as that of its SkyTeam alliance partners, in Terminals 2E, 2F and 2G. Terminal 2F will now handle all Schengen traffic, whilst Terminal 2G will remain dedicated to regional flights. Air France’s priority has been to simplify transfer procedures, which account for 52 per cent of passenger flows. To improve the flow of passengers, security checks have therefore been centralised in a single location within each terminal. Transfer passengers arriving from a Schengen destination will be exempt from security checks and will use a dedicated route. In terms of comfort, ADP and Air France have paid particular attention not only to the design of the spaces but also to the lighting and activities within the terminals. There will, of course, be a wellness area and showers, as well as an 80-room hotel and a food and drink area. On the cultural front, a gallery showcasing works from the collections of major national museums will open its doors within the terminal itself. “At this time of transformation for the company, we reaffirm our ambition to offer airport services that are among the best in the world,” emphasised Alexandre de Juniac, adding: “We are continuing to invest to ensure even greater efficiency, smoother operations and a higher quality of service for all our customers.”
DR Air France
