Delta Air Lines has opened two outdoor terrace Sky Deck lounges, breaking the traditional boundaries of exclusive airport clubs.
The new fresh-air section of Delta's Sky Club at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport—the world's busiest airport—opened Monday on Concourse F of the international terminal. The carrier's Sky Deck in New York, in Terminal 4 of John F. Kennedy International Airport, opened in May.
(Read More: Delta's New York Fliers Get an Upgrade)
Access to either lounge is granted to passengers with a Sky Club membership, or those traveling internationally in Delta's BusinessElite cabin. Alternatively, a day pass can be purchased for $50.
Delta partnered with Architectural Digest and designer Thom Filicia to develop the Sky Deck lounges, giving travelers a unique outdoor environment and unprecedented runway views at both locations.
"Amid the hustle and bustle of the airport experience, we seek to create a refuge, which represents Delta's dedication to elevated design and pays homage to an elegant lifestyle of travel and the spirit of flight," Filicia said in a statement.
(Read More: What Are the Best US Airports for Dating?)
Marshall Jackson, a Delta Air Lines Medallion elite member who writes the Marshall Jackson on Travel blog, was at Monday's opening in Atlanta.
"At 1,710 square feet, the outdoor space is larger than I'd imagined and offers fantastic views of ramp operations," he said. "There are seats for over 35 guests, complete with power outlets. The roof is open, so you're not going to spend much time out there on the coldest days or during the rain, but it's a really great space for plane geeks like me, and frankly, a tiny bit quieter than I'd imagined."
Sky Deck amenities are similar to the airline's other airport lounges, and include complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, satellite TV and personalized flight assistance.
(Read More: Delta to Raise Most Lounge Rates by $50 for Individual Travelers)
A word to smokers: Don't imagine you can step outside on the Sky Deck to light up. A Delta spokeswoman confirmed that smoking is prohibited.