– By Rob Burgess
The Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) has made an exciting announcement — the opening of a new cigar lounge at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW). This strategic decision not only enhances the airport’s amenities but also offers significant economic benefits. Despite recent misleading claims attempting to undermine this initiative, the reality is that premium cigar lounges are a valuable addition to airports worldwide.
Detroit’s decision to introduce a premium cigar lounge aligns with a global trend seen in major international airports. These world-class airports recognize that premium cigar lounges cater to a discerning clientele, providing a unique space to relax while waiting for flights. Detroit’s addition signals that U.S. airports are finally catching up to this global standard, offering luxury experiences that enhance their appeal and revenue potential.
It is no secret that cigar lounges generate substantial economic value by driving revenue, job creation, and boosting tourism appeal. By attracting a more discerning clientele, DTW’s upcoming lounge will increase airport revenues through direct sales and associated services. Throw into the mix that these lounges provide new employment opportunities in retail, hospitality, and maintenance sectors for a more specialized type of employee and the benefits continue to outweigh any perceived cons. Additionally, premium cigar lounges support manufacturers by expanding their reach to global consumers, contributing to the broader economy.
Critics have raised concerns about potential secondhand smoke exposure at the new lounge, but these claims are based on misconceptions rather than science. Studies conducted by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) and the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) provide compelling evidence that:
- Cigar Smoking Behavior is Different from Cigarettes: Most premium cigar smokers enjoy occasionally, with many reporting usage of fewer than two cigars per month.
- Minimal Health Risk to Non-Smokers: Proper ventilation and lounge placement significantly reduce any potential exposure to secondhand smoke, ensuring that non-smoking travelers are not affected.
With the opening of this new cigar lounge, WCAA is setting an example for other U.S.-based airports to follow. As more travelers seek high-end experiences, offering premium cigar lounges is an opportunity to elevate airport offerings, reduce the amount traffic to carrier lounges, and compete with international hubs. PCA encourages other major airports across the United States to consider the benefits of introducing similar lounges, such as expanding luxury travel services to standard terminals, boosting non-aeronautical revenue streams, and enhancing passenger satisfaction with upscale amenities.
The Detroit Metropolitan Airport cigar lounge is a forward-thinking addition that aligns with international trends and offers economic advantages. As more travelers seek tailored luxury experiences, it’s time for other U.S. airports to embrace this growing demand and consider following in WCAA’s footsteps. Let’s hope Detroit’s example paves the way for a more sophisticated travel experience across the country.
– Contributed by Rob Burgess. Burgess serves as PCA’s primary federal affairs contractor through his company Connector, Inc. Photo courtesy of the Wayne County Airport Authority.