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 significant advancements that form part of the “Hub 2012” project, which brings together all Air France traffic and that of its SkyTeam alliance partners across terminals 2E, 2F and 2G. Terminal 2F will now handle all Schengen traffic, while 2G remains dedicated to regional flights. Air France wanted to prioritise simplifying transfer connections, which account for 52 %d of passenger flows. For greater fluidity, border control checkpoints are therefore centralised in a single location within each terminal. Transfer passengers will be exempt from screening if they arrive from a Schengen destination, benefiting from a dedicated route. In terms of comfort, ADP and Air France have put particular effort into the spaces, as well as lighting and intra-terminal activities. Visitors will naturally find a wellness area, showers, as well as an 80-room hotel and a dining zone. On the cultural front, a gallery reflecting the collections of major national museums will open its doors inside the terminal itself. «During this period of company transformation, we reaffirm our ambition to offer one of the best airport services in the world,» emphasised Alexandre de Juniac, adding: «We continue to invest to guarantee even greater efficiency, fluidity, and quality of service for all our customers.».
DR Air France
