Keen to raise its current three-star Skytrax rating and convince transit passengers to take a stop-over holiday in Brunei, Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) has refurbished its lounge area to boost customer satisfaction and comfort.

“Getting recognised by guests and the industry globally has a very special meaning to Team RB and we will strive to achieve the four-star Skytrax ranking by middle of next year,” airline CEO Karam Chand said during the launching of its new flagship Business Class Lounge and upgraded Sky Lounge at the Brunei International Airport [BIA] this morning.

Guests checking out the refurbished Sky Lounge’s new gaming area which features PS4, Xbox, Kinect and even a virtual reality station. Photo: Hadthiah Hazair

Last week, the national carrier clinched a bronze award for best eastbound long-haul airline by the British Travel Awards. For the category, RB was up against industry giants such as British Airways and Korean Air, with Etihad securing the gold award.  This win has made RB now more emboldened to exceed customers’ expectations.

“We are pleased to offer our guests the best Bruneian hospitality and positively position Brunei International Airport to international travelers,” Chand said, adding that the upgraded lounges are the last major infrastructure change under RB’s rebranding journey, which began in the fourth quarter of 2012.

The Sky Lounge now features a gaming area complete with a virtual reality station, a movie room and a family zone. These additional amenities are accessible to all RB Royal Skies Silver members, airline guests and even walk-ins.

Meanwhile, Royal Skies Gold Members and frequent travelers can spend their time enjoying fine dining and entertainment options in the new Business Class Lounge.

“We will strive to achieve the four-star Skytrax ranking by middle of next year.”

“We are pleased to introduce the walk-in [option for Sky Lounge], a first in Brunei, which we believe will be very attractive to long-haul economy guests who have been asking for such facilities at the BIA for some time,” the RB CEO said.

The Skytrax rating, is a globally recognised system that classifies airlines by the quality of front-line product and staff service standards. Its star ratings, which go up to five stars, are recognised as a global benchmark of airline standards.

Skytrax “uses a scientific approach to deliver accuracy, with objective ratings based on Skytrax unified, global standards. Star Ratings are awarded after in-depth analysis of front-line Product and Service quality”.