The Amex Platinum Centurion Lounge has undergone some significant changes in recent years, and it's essential to stay up-to-date on the latest updates to make the most of your lounge experience.
The lounge's hours of operation have been extended at some locations, with the Dallas lounge now open from 5am to 10pm daily. This is a welcome change for early risers and late-night travelers.
Some Centurion Lounges have introduced new dining options, including a more extensive food menu at the Las Vegas lounge, featuring items like made-to-order salads and sandwiches. The lounge's beverage selection has also been upgraded, with the addition of premium spirits and craft beers.
The lounge's membership rules have also changed, with a new policy allowing cardmembers to bring in up to two guests for free, rather than just one. This is a great perk for those who want to share their lounge experience with friends or family.
Lounge Access & Guest Policy
To gain access to the AMEX Centurion Lounge, you'll need to be a card member of certain AMEX credit cards, including the AMEX Platinum and its variations, AMEX Business Platinum, AMEX Delta Reserve, and AMEX Centurion.
The good news is that you can enter the lounge three hours before your flight's departure, but be aware that some lounges may experience long queues and overcrowding.
AMEX Centurion card members can bring immediate family members or two guests free of charge, but Delta Reserve cardholders must be traveling on a same-day Delta-marketed or Delta-operated flight and may bring up to two guests but must pay $50 per guest.
Card members of the AMEX Platinum card variations may bring up to two guests at no charge, but this exclusive benefit will end soon.
Here's a breakdown of the guest fees and requirements:
- AMEX Platinum and Business Platinum cardholders: $50 per adult, $30 per child between 2-17 years old, or spend at least $75,000 on the card each calendar year for complimentary guest access.
- Children under 2 years old can enter for free if the accompanying parent/guardian can provide a "lap infant" boarding pass or proof of age.
- Centurion Card from American Express cardholders are exempt from the new fee policy.
Lounge Changes
The AMEX Centurion Lounge guest policy has undergone a significant change, effective February 1, 2023. AMEX Platinum and Platinum Business card members can no longer bring up to two guests for free, and instead, a $50 per-visit rate will apply to guests.
However, Delta Reserve card members will continue to enjoy the same benefit, with no changes to the perk. The $50 per-visit rate will remain in place for them.
AMEX Platinum and Platinum Business card members can avoid paying for guest passes by spending at least $75,000 on the card each calendar year, which will unlock the previously granted ability to bring up to two guests for free.
Amex Expands Lounges
American Express is expanding its Centurion Lounges in several US airports.
The new Centurion Lounge at Washington Reagan (DCA) will be the company's first in the airport and will span over 11,500-square-feet. It's expected to open in late 2022 as part of the airport's $1 billion overhaul.
The lounge will have floor-to-ceiling windows, airfield views, and unique design elements inspired by the city's history. It'll be located in National Hall near Terminal B, after security.
The San Francisco Centurion Lounge is also getting a major upgrade, doubling in size to around 16,000 square feet. This will provide more space for Platinum Card holders to relax and enjoy the lounge's amenities.
Worth a look: Amex Reserve Centurion Lounge
Foodies will love the new menu at San Francisco's Centurion Lounge, featuring dishes from local chef Ravi Kapur.
American Express is also tripling the space at Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) Centurion Lounge, providing even more room for travelers to unwind.
The new Centurion Lounge at DCA will feature signature amenities like a complimentary custom bar and food menu, premium restrooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Bottom Line
The new guesting policy for Amex lounges is a game-changer, especially for families. Amex now charges $50 for adult guests and $30 for children aged 2-17 to access its Centurion lounges.
You can avoid this charge by spending $75,000 on your Amex Platinum or Amex Business Platinum Card each calendar year or adding authorized users to your card. This can be a smart move for frequent travelers with large families.
New locations are planned for Washington National (DCA), Newark Liberty (EWR), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) airports. Plus, expansions are also underway in Seattle (SEA).
Additional reading: Alaska Airline Lounges
Article Notes
The Amex Platinum Centurion Lounge changes have been making waves among travel enthusiasts. The lounge's location has been moved to a more convenient spot, adjacent to the Admirals Club.
One of the most significant changes is the new menu, which offers a wider variety of options, including a made-to-order noodle bar and a selection of craft beers. The lounge's hours of operation have also been extended.
The lounge's design has been revamped to create a more spacious and modern atmosphere. The new layout includes more comfortable seating and improved natural light.
Food and beverage options have been upgraded, with a focus on premium ingredients and creative dishes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the changes to Amex Platinum lounge Access 2024?
Starting October 24, 2024, Amex Platinum lounge access will be capped at 20 visits per calendar year for primary cardholders and 10 visits for supplementary cardholders. This change affects Priority Pass access for lounge visits.
What are the new rules for Centurion Lounge?
As of February 1, 2023, most Centurion Lounge cardholders must pay $50 per adult guest ($30 for children ages 2-17) unless they spend $75,000 or more annually on their card. A fee now applies to non-elite guests, with exceptions for high-spending cardholders.
Does Amex Platinum get you into Centurion Lounge?
Yes, Amex Platinum cardmembers can access the Centurion Lounge with their card, a same-day boarding pass, and government-issued ID. This benefit is included with the card's $695 annual fee.
Is Amex building more Centurion lounges?
Yes, American Express is expanding the Centurion Lounge Network with new locations, including a lounge at Haneda Airport in Tokyo. The company plans to open more lounges in the future, enhancing the overall experience for card members.
Sources
- https://pointsmiler.com/home/card-news-major-change-to-the-amex-centurion-lounge-guest-policy
- https://viewfromthewing.com/starting-2023-no-more-free-guests-in-centurion-lounges-unless-you-spend-75000-on-platinum-card/
- https://upgradedpoints.com/news/centurion-lounge-guest-charge/
- https://www.godsavethepoints.com/amex-expands-centurion-airport-lounges-and-announces-one-for-dca/
- https://thepointsguy.com/news/amex-centurion-lounge-new-guest-policy/
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