Update: U.S. cardholders will also lose access on August 1st.
American Express cardholders in Hong Kong that get complimentary access to Priority Pass (through various cards) will lose access to non-lounge airport experiences effect August 1st, 2019. Non-lounge airport experiences are defined as restaurants, cafes and bars where a food/beverage credit is offered instead of entrance into a traditional airport lounge.
At the moment only cardholders in Hong Kong have received this notice, but in saying that this is extremely concerning. I think the only reason why American Express would make this decision is because Priority Pass is trying to pass that cost onto American Express. Potentially Hong Kong cardholders are just using that benefit far more frequently than other countries, but I expect we will eventually see something similar expand to the United States as well. That’s a shame given how popular the restaurant additions have been, especially in locations with no traditional lounge available.
Hat tip to Loyalty Lobby
