At the very end of the terminal by gates 1 and 2, the new wing of the airport that just opened, is a Delta SkyClub. It’s a fantastic space. But maybe the best secret of the airport is that if you head up the elevator or walk up the stairs to the SkyClub there’s also a public space that any passenger can use.

There’s indoor seating, sort of a public use lounge, that’s outside of the club entrance. And just like the new SkyClub has an outdoor deck, the airport has a public use deck as well that’s even larger. Facing the east runway, it’s a Central Texas aviation geek’s dream.

We don’t have the myriad exotic planes you’ll find in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami or at New York JFK. But we do have British Airways, Norwegian, Lufthansa and the usual assortment of domestic carriers.

The public deck is nicely furnished, though not as nicely furnished as the SkyClub. It’s also larger than Delta’s deck. There’s no complimentary food and beverages, of course, but the airport has ample food and drink from local brands you can pick up and bring out with you.

Next time you fly out of Austin airport you’re going to want to turn up early — or maybe you’re going to want to spend a bit of time relaxing or working out on the deck when you arrive. Either way, aviation fans have a new place to meet especially if they can finagle gate passes.