New Access Restrictions for Amex Centurion Lounges
In an effort to reduce overcrowding at its popular Centurion Lounges, American Express has been piloting various access restrictions in certain airports at certain times. Some of those will now be made permanent.
Beginning March 22, 2019, Platinum and Centurion Card Members will only be permitted to access a Centurion Lounge within 3 hours of their scheduled flight departure time or between connecting flights. Card Members will not be permitted access upon arrival at their destination.
I’ve seen enough complaints about overcrowding at Centurion Lounges, even while the temporary restrictions have been in place that I’m skeptical that making these permanent will have any noticeable effect. The arrival restriction seems more of a cost-saving measure than an overcrowding solution. How much time do arriving passengers truly spend in airport lounges, other than to stop in for a quick bite/drink?
One last tweak to the access policy beginning in March: Platinum Card Members’ guests under 2 years of age will not count towards the 2 complimentary guests.
About Centurion Lounges
Centurion Lounges offer travelers free amenities such as unique hot and cold food choices, premium bar drinks, showers and WiFi access. Access to The Centurion Lounge is complimentary for global American Express Platinum Card and Centurion Members. Platinum Card members who receive complimentary access may enter with up to two guests at no additional charge. Centurion members may enter with up to two guests or immediate family (spouse or domestic partner, and children under 18) at no additional charge.
American Express has Centurion Lounge locations in Dallas (DFW), Hong Kong (HKG), Houston (IAH), Las Vegas (LAS), New York LaGuardia (LGA), Miami (MIA), Philadelphia (PHL), Seattle (SEA) and San Franscisco (SFO). New lounges are planned for Charlotte (CLT), Denver (DEN), Los Angeles (LAX) , New York (JFK)