O Canada.

Aside from your crispy air and irresistible poutine, there was nothing I enjoyed more than your Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges. So after LAX finished up their game of musical chairs, which saw Air Canada moving from T2, I was excited to try their newly relocated T6 digs.

On a recent flight to YVR from LAX, the opportunity presented itself. I made my way to the Mezzanine level, followed the signs for the Maple Leaf Lounge, whipped out the trusty Priority Pass black card, and…

​Mutombo’d.

No no no. Not today. Air Canada didn’t re-up their contract, so PSA: Priority Pass cardholders no longer have access. Not realizing at the time that Amex Platinum cardholders still do, I took the walk of shame outta there.

Luckily on the same Mezzanine level lies the Alaska Lounge, where PP membership is still good. Open from 05:00 to midnight just above Gate 64, it’s an above-average retreat whose offerings reminded me of the now defunct Virgin America Loft. 

There’s a fountain drink dispenser, salad, cheeses, fruits, nuts, pretzels, and their infamous pancake machine. Complimentary drinks included seasonal brews on tap and the typical spirits (whisky, rum, gin, tequila, vodka).

You’re not getting a full, heavy meal or access to showers here (though their washrooms were nice), but for the quick snack and drink it gets the job done with ample space, cozy seating, very friendly staff, expansive runway views, and fast reliable WiFi. Not pictured is a convenient workstation corner with printers / copiers and a separate kids playroom for the traveling rugrats.

​If you’re flying Virgin America, Alaska, or Air Canada out of LAX, be sure to give this a quick stop and enjoy the Pacific Northwest ski lodge vibes.

---