Free lounge access for armed forced to be revoked in new Winnipeg airport terminal
July 13, 2011
The Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport currently offers free access to a lounge for members of the Canadian Forces and their families, but when the new terminal opens this fall, this service will be discontinued. The Toronto Sun reports that HMS Host, the financial backer of the service, will not be involved with the business of the new terminal.
The lounge, which charges regular travelers $15 for the use of its facilities, has free internet access, complimentary drinks and snacks, TVs and reading material. These amenities may have eased some of the stresses of traveling for military men and women.
"We would love to see the service continue for military members if someone has the business model and wants to do it," Christine Alongi, a Winnipeg Airports Authority spokeswoman, told the news source. "We know traveling military certainly appreciated it."
Members of the Canadian Armed Forces, and other traveling military members can find alternative ways to combat the stress of traveling, such as arriving to the airport early to avoid time constraints and allowing themselves time to relax before a flight, according to Military.com. While they are abroad, military personnel can use international calling cards to stay in touch with their loved ones.