Turkish Airlines opens swanky frequent-flier lounge at Dulles airport

DULLES, Va. – Turkish Airlines unveiled a swanky new frequent-flier lounge Friday at Washington Dulles International Airport. The lounge is the first in the USA for the fast-growing carrier, which says it flies to more individual destinations than any other airline in the world.

Turkish Air’s 5,000-square foot lounge is located near gate 43 on Dulles’ B concourse. It can seat up to 120 passengers at a time and includes shower facilities and a direct hallway to the jet-bridge for when it’s time to board.

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The lounge will be open to Turkish Airlines’ business-class customers and elite-level fliers. The lounge also is open to frequent-fliers of other airlines in the Star Alliance frequent-flier group who’ve attained Gold-level status.

That’s important at Washington Dulles, where Star Alliance member United operates a major hub.

The Turkish lounge opened Friday with a ceremony that spilled out into the B concourse. Among those on hand were Turkish dignitaries as well as airport and airline officials.

Turkish Airlines flies nonstop from Washington Dulles to its hub in Istanbul, operating 10 flights a week on the route.

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IN PICTURES: Behind the scenes: In the cockpit and control tower at Dulles airport

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