How to Get Access to an American Express Centurion Lounge Before Your Flight

Posted on 16 Sep, 2024 - Est. mins read

How to Get Access to an American Express Centurion Lounge Before Your Flight

Key Takeaways:

  1. Access to American Express Centurion Lounges is primarily available to holders of the Amex Platinum, Business Platinum, or Centurion cards, allowing them to bring up to two guests.

  2. Non-cardholders can gain entry as guests of eligible cardholders or by becoming authorized users on an Amex account.

  3. Centurion Lounges offer gourmet dining, premium drinks, wellness services, and quiet workspaces, providing a luxurious airport experience before your flight.

Traveling can be stressful, but the American Express Centurion Lounge offers a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of the airport.

With gourmet dining, premium drinks, and plush seating, these lounges are a traveler’s paradise.

But how do you get access to these exclusive havens? Whether you’re an Amex cardholder or not, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get into a Centurion Lounge before your flight.

 

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Understanding Centurion Lounge Access

The American Express Centurion Lounge network is a collection of high-end airport lounges available primarily to American Express cardholders.

These lounges are known for their exceptional service, top-tier amenities, and the ability to transform a mundane airport wait into a delightful experience.

However, not everyone can simply waltz into a Centurion Lounge—access is restricted to certain cardholders, and there are a few rules and tricks you need to know.

 

1. Getting Centurion Lounge Access with an American Express Card

The most straightforward way to gain access to a Centurion Lounge is by holding the right American Express card. Here are the cards that offer complimentary entry:

  1. The Platinum Card® from American Express

    This is the most popular card for Centurion Lounge access. It allows entry for the cardholder plus two guests or immediate family members (spouse/domestic partner and children under 18).

  2. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

    Similar to the personal Platinum card, this card also grants access for the cardholder and two guests or immediate family members.

  3. The Centurion® Card (Amex Black Card)

    The crème de la crème of Amex cards, the Centurion Card offers all the perks of the Platinum Card and more, including unlimited access to Centurion Lounges for the cardholder and two guests or immediate family members.

  4. Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

    This card provides Centurion Lounge access when flying on a Delta-operated flight. However, a fee applies for guests, and you must be flying on Delta that day.

Pro Tip: If you frequently travel with family or friends, The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express offers the best value because of the complimentary guest access.

 

2. Can You Get Centurion Lounge Access Without a Card?

The short answer is no—at least not in the traditional sense. Access to Centurion Lounges is a perk reserved for eligible American Express cardholders. However, there are a few exceptions and workarounds that might allow you to experience the lounge without personally holding the card.

  1. Be a Guest

    If you have a friend or family member who holds an eligible Amex card, they can bring you in as a guest. This is probably the easiest way to gain access without having a card yourself.

  2. Corporate Cards

    If your employer provides you with a Corporate Platinum Card, you may also be eligible for lounge access. Check with your company’s HR department to see if your corporate card qualifies.

  3. Authorized User

    Become an authorized user on someone else’s eligible Amex card account. Some cardholders can add authorized users to their account for a fee, and those users often enjoy the same lounge access privileges.

But beware: If you’re thinking about sneaking in, don’t. American Express lounges have strict policies, and access is tightly controlled. Attempting to enter without proper credentials could lead to embarrassment—or worse, being blacklisted from future visits.

 

3. Centurion Lounge Locations: Where to Find Them

The Centurion Lounge network is growing rapidly, with new lounges popping up in major airports worldwide. Here’s where you can currently find them:


United States

  1. Atlanta (ATL)

  2. Charlotte (CLT)

  3. Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)

  4. Denver (DEN)

  5. Houston (IAH)

  6. Las Vegas (LAS)

  7. Los Angeles (LAX)

  8. Miami (MIA)

  9. New York (JFK)

  10. Philadelphia (PHL)

  11. Phoenix (PHX)

  12. San Francisco (SFO)

  13. Seattle (SEA)

  14. Washington, D.C. (DCA)


International

  1. Mexico City (MEX)

  2. Hong Kong (HKG)

  3. London (LHR)

 

Each lounge is uniquely designed to reflect the culture and style of its location, offering a taste of local flavors and ambiance.

For example, the Centurion Lounge in Miami features a seafood bar, while the San Francisco lounge offers wine tasting—a nod to nearby Napa Valley.

Fun Fact: The Centurion Lounge in New York (JFK) includes a speakeasy-style bar, perfect for unwinding with a drink that feels as exclusive as the lounge itself.

 

4. How to Get Into a Centurion Lounge: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Get Into a Centurion Lounge: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re heading to the airport and want to access a Centurion Lounge, follow these steps to ensure a smooth entry:

  1. Check Your Card

    Make sure you have an eligible American Express card. You’ll need to present it along with your boarding pass and a government-issued ID.

  2. Verify Your Flight Details

    Centurion Lounges are only available to travelers with a same-day boarding pass. You can typically enter the lounge up to three hours before your scheduled departure.

  3. Know the Guest Policy

    If you plan to bring guests, make sure you know the lounge’s guest policy. Platinum and Centurion cardholders can bring up to two guests for free, while Delta Reserve cardholders will need to pay a fee for each guest.

  4. Locate the Lounge

    Use the American Express mobile app or website to find the lounge location within your airport. Signage within the airport will also guide you.

  5. Enjoy the Perks

    Once inside, take advantage of all the amenities. Indulge in gourmet meals, sip on premium drinks, catch up on work with high-speed Wi-Fi, or simply relax in a comfortable chair.

Bonus Tip: If the lounge is particularly busy, the staff might limit the number of guests allowed per cardholder. During peak times, arriving early can increase your chances of getting in with your guests.

 

 

5. What to Expect Inside a Centurion Lounge

So, what’s all the fuss about? Here’s a taste of what you can expect once you’re inside a Centurion Lounge:

  • Gourmet Dining

    Forget the pre-packaged sandwiches typical of airport lounges. Centurion Lounges feature menus curated by award-winning chefs, offering a variety of freshly prepared dishes that reflect local cuisine.

  • Premium Bar

    The bar serves a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and spirits, many of which are complimentary. You’ll also find non-alcoholic options, including specialty coffees and teas.

  • Wellness Amenities

    Some lounges offer spa services, including massages, manicures, and even guided meditation sessions, allowing you to de-stress before your flight.

  • Business Services

    If you need to get some work done, the lounges provide high-speed Wi-Fi, power outlets, and quiet workspaces. Some locations even offer conference rooms for private meetings.

  • Relaxation Areas

    Whether you’re in the mood to watch TV, catch up on reading, or take a nap, there’s a space designed for your needs.

Quirky Detail: Each lounge often features unique art installations or design elements that reflect the local culture. For example, the Centurion Lounge in San Francisco has art inspired by the Golden Gate Bridge.

 

Best Credit Cards for Centurion Lounge Access

Best Credit Cards for Centurion Lounge Access

Access to the American Express Centurion Lounge network is a coveted perk for frequent travelers.

These lounges offer a luxurious airport experience with gourmet dining, premium drinks, and relaxing environments. Here are the five best credit cards that grant you access to these exclusive lounges:

  1. The Platinum Card® from American Express

    Why It’s Great for Centurion Lounge Access:

    • Complimentary Access: Entry for the cardholder plus two guests or immediate family members (spouse/domestic partner and children under 18).
    • Global Lounge Collection: Access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, including Priority Pass, Delta Sky Clubs, and Plaza Premium lounges.
    • Additional Perks: $200 airline fee credit, $200 Uber Cash annually, 5X points on flights and hotels booked through Amex Travel.

    Annual Fee: annual_fees

    Best For: Frequent travelers who want comprehensive lounge access and top-tier travel benefits.

  2. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

    Why It’s Great for Centurion Lounge Access:

    • Complimentary Access: Entry for the cardholder plus two guests or immediate family members.
    • Global Lounge Collection: Access to Priority Pass, Delta Sky Clubs, and Plaza Premium lounges worldwide.
    • Business Perks: 5X points on flights and hotels through Amex Travel, 1.5X points on purchases in select business categories, $200 airline fee credit.

    Annual Fee: annual_fees

    Best For: Business owners who travel frequently and need premium lounge access along with business rewards.

  3. Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

    Why It’s Great for Centurion Lounge Access:

    • Delta Lounge Access: Entry to Centurion Lounges when flying Delta-operated flights, with a fee for guests.
    • Delta Sky Club Access: Complimentary access to Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta.
    • Delta-Specific Perks: Annual companion certificate, priority boarding, first checked bag free, 3X miles on Delta purchases.

    Annual Fee: annual_fees

    Best For: Delta loyalists who want dual access to Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs.

  4. The Centurion® Card from American Express (Amex Black Card)

    Why It’s Great for Centurion Lounge Access:

    • Unlimited Access: Entry for the cardholder plus two guests or immediate family members.
    • Exclusive Perks: Personalized concierge services, private jets, and top-tier access to Amex travel benefits.
    • Luxury Benefits: Special access to private events, high-end hotels, and premium travel experiences.

    Annual Fee: Invitation-only with a high initiation fee and annual fee.

    Best For: Ultra-wealthy individuals who seek unmatched luxury and exclusivity in travel and lifestyle experiences.

  5. American Express® Corporate Platinum Card

    Why It’s Great for Centurion Lounge Access:

    • Corporate Perks: Complimentary Centurion Lounge access for employees with the card.
    • Business Travel Benefits: Includes Global Lounge Collection access, TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fee credit, and 5X points on flights and hotels through Amex Travel.
    • Expense Management: Tools for managing corporate expenses and travel benefits.

    Annual Fee: Varies by corporate plan

    Best For: Corporations looking to provide premium travel benefits to their executives and frequent business travelers.

These five credit cards offer the best options for gaining access to the prestigious Centurion Lounge network.

Whether you’re a frequent flyer, business traveler, or someone who values luxury, there’s a card that suits your needs.

Each card comes with its unique set of benefits, so choose the one that aligns with your travel habits and lifestyle.

 

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Bottom Line

Getting access to an American Express Centurion Lounge is one of the best perks of holding an eligible Amex card.

With their luxurious amenities, excellent food and drink, and relaxing atmosphere, these lounges can make your airport experience feel like a mini-vacation before your actual vacation.

Whether you’re a Platinum cardholder who frequents these lounges or someone trying to find a way in without a card, understanding how to navigate the Centurion Lounge access rules can help you maximize your travel experience. 

So, the next time you’re at the airport, leave the crowded gate area behind and step into a Centurion Lounge—you’ll never want to travel any other way.

 

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