Bits: update on the BA Glasgow lounge closure, Mandarin Oriental launches Amex cashback deal

News in brief:

What is happening with the British Airways Glasgow lounge?

The British Airways lounge at Glasgow Airport suffered a serious flood on 6th August.

I assumed that the damage could be cleared up quickly but it seems that the process is going to take a while. It is even possible that BA decides to use the opportunity to bring forward some refurbishment work that had been planned for 2026.

If you are flying from Glasgow in the near future, this is lounge situation:

• Before 5pm, Club Europe passengers and British Airways Club Gold members plus eligible guests are using the (smart) Lomond Lounge, which we reviewed here pre-covid

• From 5pm, Club Europe passengers and British Airways Club Gold members plus eligible guests are using the Upperdeck lounge which is the mainstream lounge, and which we last reviewed here pre-covid

• British Airways Silver cardholders are using the Upperdeck lounge at all times

Both are acceptable alternatives, I think. You can double-check the current position via the oneworld alliance lounge directory here.

Mandarin Oriental launches a new American Express deal

The luxury Mandarin Oriental hotel group has launched another American Express cashback offer.

You will get £100 cashback when you spend £500+ by 21st November. Cumulative spend does NOT count, which is a change from when this offer last ran.

As usual you need to opt in, if targetted, via the Amex website before booking.

Participating properties are: Barcelona, Boston, Geneva, Hong Kong, London (x2), Luzern, Munich, New York, Paris, Chou-ku and Zurich.

If booking, get a quote from our hotel booking partner Emyr Thomas first. He can access additional benefits, for the same price as the Best Flexible Rate, as he is a Mandarin Oriental Fan Club appointed agent.

There is no booking fee when using Emyr and you pay at check-out as usual, which will trigger the cashback.