FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Fort Wayne International Airport (FWA) is betting on business travelers with the debut of its new Gateway Lounge, a premium space designed to elevate the pre-flight experience at one of Indiana’s fastest-growing airports.

Unveiled Thursday as part of FWA’s multi-phase “Project Gateway” terminal expansion, the Gateway Lounge — presented in partnership with STAR Bank — offers travelers a range of upscale amenities including high-speed Wi-Fi, private workstations, comfortable seating, and complimentary snacks and drinks.

The lounge is located post-security on the second floor of the terminal, placing it within easy reach for departing passengers regardless of airline or frequent flyer status.

“We’ve listened to the needs of our passengers, especially business travelers,” said Scott Hinderman, Executive Director of Airports for the Fort Wayne-Allen County Airport Authority. “The Gateway Lounge is a direct response to those requests — a space to work, relax, and recharge.”

First-Class Amenities in a Regional Hub

While premium lounges are a staple at major airports in Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles, they remain relatively rare in smaller regional markets like Fort Wayne.

But that’s changing.

With a growing population, expanding corporate footprint, and increasing flight connectivity, FWA is positioning itself to better serve the modern traveler.

What the Gateway Lounge offers:

• Private restrooms

• Individual workstations

• Semi-private and private meeting rooms

• Comfortable seating areas

• Complimentary snacks and beverages

• High-speed Wi-Fi

• Mobile ordering from airport restaurants and cafes

In a nod to inclusivity, access is not restricted by airline, status, or club membership. All travelers can purchase access either through a $30 day pass or an annual $150 membership, which includes unlimited visits for the member and one guest.

A Partnership With Local Roots

The Gateway Lounge is being introduced in partnership with STAR Bank, a Fort Wayne-based financial institution that has expanded aggressively across Indiana in recent years.

“We’re incredibly grateful to STAR Bank for helping make this vision a reality,” Hinderman said. “Their commitment to local innovation is reflected in every detail of this space.”

The bank’s branding is subtly integrated into the design, which reflects a blend of Midwestern warmth and modern professionalism — light wood tones, muted lighting, and work-friendly furniture configurations.

In a press release, STAR Bank described the collaboration as a “commitment to improving regional infrastructure and elevating the traveler experience in northeast Indiana.”

Project Gateway: Building for the Future

The lounge is one piece of a larger transformation taking place at Fort Wayne International through Project Gateway, a multi-year terminal expansion that includes:

• A larger TSA security checkpoint

• Expanded baggage claim areas

• New gate areas with enhanced seating

• Modernized food and beverage options

• Energy-efficient design elements

Since launching Project Gateway in 2021, FWA has completed several phases of its development, including the addition of new jet bridges, passenger boarding areas, and upgraded restrooms.

Airport officials say the long-term goal is to position FWA as a leading regional travel hub, capable of supporting more nonstop destinations and higher daily flight volumes.

By the Numbers: FWA Growth

A Travel Experience Reimagined

For frequent flyers like Emily Martin, a Fort Wayne-based medical sales executive who often flies to Chicago and Dallas, the new lounge is more than just a luxury — it’s a long overdue upgrade.

“I’ve spent so many mornings here trying to take Zoom calls in a corner near the gate,” she said with a laugh. “Having a quiet, professional space makes a huge difference. It shows that Fort Wayne is thinking about the future.”

Other travelers agree. A soft opening held last week received high marks from business travelers and families alike, especially for its mobile food ordering feature — allowing passengers to skip long lines and dine in the lounge from the terminal’s main restaurant or coffee shop.

Airports Embrace the “Work-While-You-Wait” Era

FWA is part of a broader trend in U.S. air travel as even smaller airports are rethinking what it means to serve the modern traveler. As remote work, hybrid jobs, and workcations become more common, airports are being reimagined not just as transportation hubs, but as productivity zones.

“People don’t just want to kill time at airports anymore,” said aviation consultant Mark Lenz, who advises small airports across the Midwest. “They want to use that time meaningfully — to finish a presentation, join a call, or decompress in a stress-free space.”

The Gateway Lounge, with its flexible access model and strong amenities, is FWA’s answer to that demand.

More to Come

Officials say additional features will be introduced in future phases, including expanded lounge hours, rotating local art installations, and priority access programs for high-frequency travelers.

For now, the Gateway Lounge is open to all departing passengers during regular flight hours. Memberships and passes are available online and at the terminal.

Category: Aviation / Local Business
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