O'Hare's Swissport Lounge Dubbed 'Saddest' in America by Wall Street Journal

Chicago O'Hare International Airport's Swissport Lounge in Terminal 5 has drawn significant attention after The Wall Street Journal labeled it "the saddest airport lounge in America." The report, widely shared on social media by The Wall Street Journal, highlights the lounge's bare-bones amenities and unique self-service beverage policy. The lounge serves first-class and business-class passengers of several international airlines, as well as Priority Pass members.

The Wall Street Journal's assessment points to a range of deficiencies within the tiny, windowless facility. Criticisms include a general lack of comfortable seating, insufficient power outlets, and a consistently loud and crowded environment. Travelers have reported that the food offerings are notably subpar, often consisting of "mediocre food" such as instant noodles and prepackaged pasta salad, akin to convenience store fare.

A distinctive feature, or perhaps a consequence of its limited service, is the absence of bartenders. As stated in the original tweet, and confirmed by the report, visitors are left to "mix your own drinks" at a self-serve bar. While some travelers have found this aspect to be a minor perk, it underscores the minimal staffing and service level provided.

Jorge Da Silva, head of North America lounges for Swissport, acknowledged the facility's shortcomings, stating that the O'Hare lounge is indeed "not up to scratch." The situation at O'Hare's Swissport Lounge reflects a broader trend of overcrowding and declining quality in airport lounges across the country, often attributed to the proliferation of credit cards offering lounge access through programs like Priority Pass. Major carriers like Delta and American Express have recently implemented stricter access policies or digital waitlists to manage capacity.

Despite the widespread criticism, some travelers have offered a more charitable view, noting that the free drinks and snacks, however basic, still offer a reprieve from the main terminal and can save money. The lounge's 1.5 out of 5 rating on various platforms further solidifies its reputation as one of the least desirable airport lounges in the United States.