The first reported airport lounge was opened by American Airlines (AA) on December 2, 1939, at the New York Municipal terminal ( now New York LaGuardia Airport ).
Back then, the AA Chairman – C. R. Smith thought it would be a good idea to open a dedicated lounge to cater to airline supporters called “Admirals” and VIPs. He opened an invitation-only club called the “The Admiral’s Club” for relaxation before and after a flight. Their receptionists were called skippers while bar staff were called stewards.