American Express lounges are exceedingly popular, so much so that overcrowding is very much a real issue. Currently the primary cardholder can access lounge along “…with either up to two guests or immediate family (spouse or domestic partner, and children under 18) at no additional charge”.
According to TPGÂ starting March 30th, the guest access policy will change. The primary cardholder will be able to access the lounge along with two guests (regardless of whether they are immediate family or not). The difference is that you can’t bring two guests and immediate family.
This will effect families the most, if you’re a family of 4+ you won’t all be able to access the lounge with one platinum/centurion card. The work around would be to add an authorized user for $175, as they also get centurion lounge access. Keep in mind that additional guests currently cost $50 per visit.
This change now means American Express’ guest policy is the same across all lounges, as you can bring in two guests for free with priority pass as well now.
Overcrowding is a very real issue, but I feel like this punishes families that travel rarely compared to individuals (or groups under 3) that travel frequently. I would personally just limit the total number of times guests can freely access the lounge per year, regardless of how many are being brought in at a time (maybe cap it at primary cardholder + four guests to limit people bringing in 20 people once a year). I’d need to see hard numbers on how often lounges are typically used and guest numbers to suggest an annual cap.
How would you solve the overcrowding issues at Centurion lounges?
