New Pearl Lounge opens at Bratislava M. R. Štefánik Airport in Slovakia

Menzies Aviation, the leading service partner to the world’s airports and airlines, has officially unveiled its new Pearl Lounge at Bratislava M. R. Štefánik Airport (BTS), marking the 57^th lounge in its expanding Pearl network and the first in Slovakia.

Located in the departures terminal, the new Pearl Lounge offers passengers a premium space to relax and refresh ahead of their journey. It is among the first in the Pearl network to be unveiled in the brand’s new modern design with amenities tailored to both business and leisure passengers. This includes comfortable seating and a relaxation area, dedicated workstation areas, and complimentary Wi-Fi and refreshments.

With a total area of 187 m² and capacity for up to 63 guests, the lounge is thoughtfully divided into several distinct zones to suit different passenger needs, including a lounge area, buffet area, dining area, and a quiet zone.

Designed to reflect the character of local surroundings, Pearl Lounges offer passengers a taste of the local culture, combined with consistent standards of comfort and quality. With a focus on enhancing the overall passenger experience, the spaces are developed to be both welcoming and efficient, improving functionality and comfort for all guests. Access to the Pearl Lounge is available to a broad range of passengers, including eligible Mastercard holders, Priority Pass and DragonPass members. Walk-in guests are also welcome and can access the lounge for a fixed fee, subject to availability. Special promotional offers are also available for families.  

The new lounge was officially unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by senior leaders from both Menzies Aviation and Bratislava Airport. Celebrating the strategic partnership and shared commitment to enhancing the passenger experience in the region, Dušan Novota, CEO and Chairman of the Board of M. R. Štefánik Airport, was joined by Philipp Joeinig, Group CEO of Menzies Aviation; Miguel Gomez, Executive Vice President Europe; Jiri Petrzilka, Senior Vice President Eastern Europe; and Giovanna Perucatti, Vice President Lounges Europe.

The lounge opening comes at a time of continued growth for Bratislava Airport, which recently reported a 7% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers, handling 1.9 million passengers in 2024[1]. The airport also recorded a 6% increase in aircraft movements, with a total of 28,000 flights. As passenger traffic continues to grow, the addition of the Pearl Lounge reflects Menzies’ commitment to supporting this upward trajectory and enhancing the overall airport experience through premium, accessible hospitality services.

Philipp Joeinig, Group CEO, Menzies Aviation said: “The opening of our 57th Pearl Lounge, and our very first in Slovakia, is a proud moment for Menzies. Bratislava Airport has undergone a significant growth period, and the new lounge is the perfect space for passengers to relax and unwind before they fly. Thanks to the team at Bratislava M. R. Štefánik Airport for their confidence and trust. We look forward to working together to elevate the passenger experience, bringing world-class Pearl hospitality to Slovakia and beyond.”

Dušan Novota, CEO and Chairman, M. R. Štefánik Airport, said: “We are proud to have established a partnership with such a reputable global player as Menzies Aviation, a company with extensive experience in operating airport lounges worldwide. This collaboration marks an important step forward in enhancing the travel experience at our airport. The newly redesigned lounge, featuring a modern interior and an expanded selection of refreshments, will significantly elevate the standard of services offered to passengers. We’re especially pleased that the lounge is opening in June, just ahead of the peak summer travel season, allowing the highest number of travelers to benefit from the upgraded space. Among the very first guests today are passengers on newly launched routes from Bratislava to Zadar and Skiathos (tomorrow).”

[1] https://www.bts.aero/en/airport/press/latest-news/the-airport-reports-its-best-financial-results-in-16-years/