Here’s a new concept in airline marketing: The Sky360 by Delta, a temporary lounge and event space that showcases Delta’s “unique in-flight experience” and amenities. The joke potential here is all too obvious (how much do you wish you were sipping a cocktail in a cramped coach class seat while eating a half-dead sandwich right now?). But the airline aims to wow travelers nonetheless with screenings of in-flight entertainment options like Sex & the City, the Sopranos and recent film Knocked Up (None of which, incidentally, could I really see any airline offering as entertainment in the main cabin. It always seems like in-flight movies these days are the tamest, most kid-friendly features possible, which always kind of bums me out). By day, visitors can sample free coffee and Coca-Cola beverages. At night, the lounge will be serving cocktails designed by Randy Gerber (I’d go at night). You can also dine on Delta’s new in-flight food offerings. I wonder if they give you the little plastic utensil packet, too.

While the opportunity to eat airline food while not actually on a plane sounds oh so enticing, I think the real reasons to stop by the Sky360 are the free wireless Internet access available throughout the 3,500-square-foot space and the charging station, which offers complimentary charging for a bevy of mobile devices. Now those are perks real travelers can appreciate.

The Sky360 will be open today through Nov. 11, 2007, and is located at 101 West 57th St (@6th Ave.).

Delta Brings Award-Winning In-Flight Experience From the Skies to the New ‘SKY360 by Delta’ in New York City