Bengaluru: As airport lounges evolve beyond waiting spaces, the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) has introduced Gate Z, a first-of-its-kind Gen Z–inspired social lounge, reflecting the evolving expectations of today’s travellers.
As time increasingly becomes part of the journey, passengers are seeking environments that feel intuitive, social, and relevant to their lifestyles, an official release says, adding that Gate Z has been designed in response to this change, moving beyond the conventional lounge model to create a shared space that blends comfort, culture and community.
Gate Z is not defined by age, but by mindset. It represents authenticity, ease, sustainability, and seamless integration of technology.
Positioned next to the 080 International Lounge in Terminal 2, Gate Z draws inspiration from the evolving mindset of travellers for whom travel is part of a broader lifestyle.
Inspired by the energy of a modern high-street, Gate Z features fluid pathways, social-first zones and intuitive layouts that balance interaction and pause. Curved seating, ambient lighting and interactive zones support working, unwinding, socialising or moments of solitude.
Global influences blend seamlessly with local touches across design, food and art, while a warm palette of cyan and burnt orange, streetlamp-inspired lighting and sustainable materials create a contemporary, welcoming atmosphere.
AI-led features are integrated to enable intuitive navigation, personalisation, and enhanced passenger convenience.
While rooted in Gen Z values of inclusivity, authenticity and self-expression, Gate Z is intended to resonate across age groups, from young professionals seeking dynamic work-and-social zones to seasoned travellers who value thoughtful comfort and calm, adapting to different travel rhythms.
The lounge features
Bubble & Brew: A café-bar to kickstart your pre-flight state of mind
The Sipping Lounge: A relaxed space that offers laid-back comfort for downtime or conversation
Subway Diner: A playful, retro-inspired eatery with live counters and high-energy design
The Amphizone: A modern amphitheatre for screenings, pop-ups and spontaneous gatherings
