British Airways has pioneered the use of the Barsys automated cocktail system in its San Francisco and Newark lounges, offering guests a swift, high-tech mixology experience with every visit.
During a limited-time pilot, First and Club World travelers departing from San Francisco and Newark were treated to a curated menu of 30 signature and customizable cocktails—all expertly crafted by the Barsys robotic bartender in under 45 seconds. Among the highlights were local-inspired creations such as the Silicon Galley and Echo-Whisky-Romeo, designed exclusively for British Airways’ discerning clientele.
Developed by Barsys, an industry leader in AI-powered beverage solutions, this innovative machine marks the first time a UK airline has adopted robotic mixology for its premium lounges. The technology enables guests to enjoy consistent, precision-crafted drinks at the touch of a button, setting a new standard for lounge hospitality.
Ordering is seamless: guests select their preferred cocktail through a dedicated app, place their glass on the conveyor, and watch as the AI-driven system prepares their chosen beverage with flair and accuracy.
Ricardo Vidal, Head of Innovation at British Airways, shared: “Our focus is on delivering cutting-edge enhancements for our customers both in-flight and on the ground. The Barsys cocktail experience is a testament to our commitment to innovation, and it’s fitting to debut this technology in San Francisco’s recently upgraded lounge and Newark—both hubs of technological sophistication in the United States.”
Akshet Tewari, CEO and Founder of Barsys, commented: “Collaborating with British Airways has allowed us to showcase how AI can transform the lounge experience. While Barsys doesn’t aim to replace skilled bartenders, it complements their craft by handling classic recipes, freeing staff to focus on bespoke cocktails and personalized guest interactions.”