My Blog

Category: Lounges

  • Amex Centurion Lounge at DFW Adds Homemade Ice Cream

    Amex Centurion Lounge at DFW Adds Homemade Ice Cream

    While generally considered some of the best domestic airline lounges, Amex’s Centurion Lounges have been victims of their own success since the first location opened as Las Vegas’s McCarran (now Harry Reid) Airport in 2013. With Amex’s lax underwriting standards, it seems anyone and their dog can get approved for the bank’s Platinum Card, and their lounges in the US have suffered from overcrowding and long waits for entry in some cases. New restrictions on guest privileges added in 2023 didn’t really seem to help all that much. Meanwhile, with the rising food costs across America, Amex has diluted the quality of their food at US lounges, ranging from “mid” to totally inedible.

    Well, it does seem Amex has made an improvement, and it’s one I’ve not seen in a lounge before. I decided to pay a visit to the Centurion Lounge at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), and the cheerful agent manning the desk let me know they’ve added an ice cream cart, serving fresh-churned ice cream in the lounge. Sure enough, just past the entrance was a cart decked out in Amex’s signature blue branding, equipped with some devices to churn ice cream fresh right before your eyes, as well as a range of toppings from chocolate chips to coconut (though you aren’t allowed to touch them yourself for health & safety reasons, you can ask for whatever you want and an attendant will add your toppings).

    Ice cream cart at DFW Centurion, (C) 2024 Points & PDBs
    Ice cream cart at DFW Centurion, (C) 2024 Points & PDBs

    The cinnamon vanilla ice cream was extremely tasty, and its freshness was evident. The attendant let me know they’ve been doing this in the DFW lounge since earlier this month, but he wasn’t aware on if other locations were following suit or if this was unique to DFW (nor would I necessarily expect him to know, as he was likely a contractor from the likes of Sodexo or HMSHost). Of course, just like everything else inside the Centurion Lounge, there is no additional charge for the ice cream.

    Fresh food made in front of you in-lounge isn’t a new concept, but this is the first time I’ve seen ice cream offered in this manner. In 2023, American Airlines added guacamole carts to select Admirals Club lounges, which have been a big hit with passengers. It’s perhaps no surprise another lounge network is trying to put their own unique spin on the idea.

  • Reports: Centurion Lounge in MIA Closed Until at Least Midweek

    Reports: Centurion Lounge in MIA Closed Until at Least Midweek

    Multiple reports are streaming in, and it’s not the kind of news AmEx Platinum cardholders passing through Miami International Airport (MIA) were hoping for. The Centurion Lounge is officially on hiatus, and the cause? A rather mysterious “plumbing issue.” The initial rumors suggest “at least three days” of downtime, but for those familiar with MIA’s track record (see also: indefinite closure of the SkyTrain), getting that lounge back in action in just 72 hours seems incredibly optimistic.

    A post surfaced in a private Facebook group showcasing AmEx-branded “happy meal” style boxes of to-go food being handed out to cardmembers. We’d share that photo here, but the initial uploader of this discovery hasn’t yet responded to our request to use their photo. Curious minds might wonder: does AmEx have a secret stash of these kits ready for deployment in case of unforeseen lounge disruptions?

    While we await more information and clarity on the mysterious “plumbing issue,” we invite those on the ground at MIA to keep us in the loop. Feel free to use the contact form and send us any firsthand accounts of the situation, or DM us on the “platform formerly known as Twitter” @PointsAndPDBs.

  • This Admirals Club Features Dangerously Misleading Signage

    This Admirals Club Features Dangerously Misleading Signage

    You either love or hate the Admirals Club at DFW Terminal C. It’s giant, and it’s dated. If you ever wanted to know what it was like to be George Clooney’s character in Up in the Air, this club could likely give you a pretty good idea. The food selection is abysmal, but at least there are plenty of places to hide out, including full-height cubicles in the business center. Even though the terminal has largely been relegated to domestic flights to secondary markets like Oklahoma City (OKC), they’ve never removed the shower facilities from the terminal – something CLT doesn’t have at either of their Admirals Clubs.

    World clocks… how very… retro!

    Well, there’s one interesting feature of this club that AA desperately needs to update. You see, it’s been years since AA changed its policy on gate closure, requiring passengers to be in the gate area available for boarding no later than 15 minutes, in its endless and well-documented quest to achieve D0 at all costs. However, signage at various points throughout the facility paints a different picture.

    What’s wrong with this picture? These signs state AA’s previous policy of gate closure at just 10 minutes prior to departure, not 15.

    This is dangerous to have posted prominently throughout the club. People like to enjoy the lounge until the last possible second, and 5 minutes can make all the difference between making your flight and missing it. I guess AA assumes most people enjoying an Admirals Club are probably frequent enough flyers to know better. But one has to wonder how many infrequent travelers have been burned by this; I’m imagining someone going on a once-in-a-lifetime trip on a business class ticket, or someone on a long delay purchasing a day pass when those are actually offered for sale.

    As that terminal is rebuilt piece by piece (and it will be stunning once complete), I can’t see AA investing another dime into that club unless absolutely necessary; everything is being rebuilt anyways, so why would they? Regardless, maybe if they don’t want to paint over the paint damage from removing these signs, maybe they can at least have some new ones printed? This would be forgivable if it hadn’t been many years since this change was made… but in 2023? C’mon, AA…

  • AA Flyers: Can You Still Renew That Qantas Club Membership You Bought Last Year?

    AA Flyers: Can You Still Renew That Qantas Club Membership You Bought Last Year?

    Last year, the eagle-eyed American Airlines aficionados among us pounced on an incredible opportunity offered by Qantas, a prominent member of the Oneworld alliance and a strategic partner of AA. For a mere $203, they locked in Qantas Club memberships, effectively doubling as pseudo-Admirals Club memberships, thanks to this alliance partnership. It was a deal that savvy travelers couldn’t pass up.

    Just last month, I shared some renewal offers that were going out for a similarly low $260 price tag. I initially believed this was a special promotion, but it seems it’s the standard renewal price for flyers based outside Oceania. I don’t recall the price ever being differentiated like that, but I won’t complain—it’s great news for those of us in the United States.

    With many of our memberships having expired in October, you might be wondering if you can still renew at that fantastic price and dodge the AUD $99 initiation fee, which currently translates to around USD $63. Well, I’m happy to confirm that you absolutely can!

    There’s a 90-day grace period after your membership expires, allowing you to renew without incurring the initiation fee or the higher cost of a first-year membership (AUD$450 vs AUD$410, at time of writing about a USD$25 difference). According to the fine print on the Qantas website:

    Qantas Club membership and access is subject to the Terms and Conditions of the Qantas Club.  If you renew your membership within 90-days of expiry, your membership will be valid for 12 months, 2 or 4 years (depending on the term of your membership) from your original expiry date, and not from the date of renewal. Any attempt to join after the 90-days will incur a $99 join fee in addition to the new member Individual, Partner or Corporate membership fee.

    Excerpt, Qantas Club fine print

    One key point to remember is that renewing during the grace period with the initiation fee waived will result in your new membership expiration date being based on the original expiry date, not the date you renewed. So, while the grace period is a generous benefit, there’s really no reason to delay your renewal.

    What’s more, the cost of a Qantas Club membership is substantially lower than an Admirals Club membership purchased from American Airlines. This year, Admirals Club membership prices shot up to a whopping $850. Even the Citi/AAdvantage Executive World Elite card, which includes Admirals Club membership, saw its fee rise from $450 to $595. That makes the Qantas Club membership renewal price even more appealing.

    It’s important to note that the Qantas Club membership does come with a guest allowance restriction, allowing only one guest traveling on the same PNR. In contrast, direct Admirals Club memberships permit up to two guests, and they can be anyone you choose so long as they are able to get airside. If this is important to you, you may want to pass on this offer.

    Remember that lounge access policies may vary between Oneworld airlines, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific terms and conditions for the carrier you plan to fly. Most airlines outside the US don’t offer paid lounge memberships, and therefore don’t have to honor paid memberships from alliance partners. For example, British Airways doesn’t honor paid memberships from other Oneworld carriers, as they don’t sell lounge memberships to their own members; you’d need to be flying Business or First class, or hold Oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status to gain access to most BA lounges.

    If you already have a Qantas Club membership, I strongly recommend renewing at this unbeatable price, especially in light of the ever-increasing costs of Admirals Club memberships through American Airlines. Don’t miss out on this deal while it’s still available!

  • What’s Going on with the Concourse C Admirals Club at CLT: Remodeling? Or Mold Infestation?

    What’s Going on with the Concourse C Admirals Club at CLT: Remodeling? Or Mold Infestation?

    Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) has the distinction of being many travelers’ least favorite American Airlines hub. Despite its status as a “fortress hub” and being the second-largest in American’s network, the Admirals Club situation at the airport leaves a lot to be desired. Let’s dive into the latest update on the Concourse C Admirals Club and why it’s got people talking.

    The Main Club: Large but Lackluster
    The main Admirals Club on Concourse C is the largest in the airport. However, many seasoned travelers would agree that it’s also one of the least impressive Admirals Clubs in American Airlines’ entire network. If you’ve been there, you know what I’m talking about.

    The Baby Admirals on Concourse B
    In contrast, the “baby Admirals” club on Concourse B may be smaller, but it’s significantly better, having undergone a full renovation in 2019. Many travelers prefer to trek over to Concourse B just to escape the underwhelming main club on Concourse C.

    Strange Bar Closure
    Now, the main club’s bar has suddenly closed for remodeling. The circumstances were indeed strange, with not much advance warning. A temporary bar has been set up using tables, and they are currently serving pre-packaged food only. Originally, it was supposed to be closed for just a week, but now there’s talk that it might be January before it reopens.

    Mold Infestation Rumors
    There’s been a rumor circulating on Reddit, shared by user monorail_pilot, suggesting that the bar and kitchen area of the main Admirals Club might have a terrible mold infestation. It’s been noted that the ceiling above the bar had been getting painted over every month or two. Initially, the expectation was to just replace drywall, but it now appears the issue is far more severe. While this information hasn’t been independently confirmed, the Redditor sharing it seems to be a reputable source based on their post history.

    Previous Closure for Fire Code Updates
    Some of you might recall that the main Admirals Club was closed for approximately six months in 2022 for fire code updates. During that time, sprinklers and what appears to be voice evacuation speaker-strobes for the airport’s fire alarm system were installed. However, apart from some restroom updates, no real remodeling was done. It seems that American Airlines missed an opportunity to improve the club while it was closed, because the City of Charlotte allegedly told them they’d have to foot the bill for fire code updates if any changes were made. This closure led to long lines at the “baby Admirals” club on Concourse B, as it was the only functional Admirals Club during this period.

    Independent Lounges Shine at CLT
    One unusual (and arguably backwards) aspect of CLT is that the independent lounges tend to outshine the airline-affiliated ones. Unpopular opinion alert: the Centurion Lounge at the C-D connector is one of my favorite domestic lounges – at least, that I’m in a position to use with any regularity. The layout feels more spacious than many other Centurion outposts, it generally has minimal wait times (unlike DFW where 30+ minute waits are the norm), and the quality food and beverage options exceed expectations for a domestic Centurion location. Even the airport’s Priority Pass lounge, The Club at CLT, while nothing spectacular, is better than either Admirals Club in the airport. What’s more, both independent lounges feature a shower suite, while the Admirals Clubs do not – a holdover from the US Airways era (thanks, Discount Dougie!).

    Future Plans
    Earlier this year, @xJonNYC uncovered plans for a new Admirals Club at CLT. While details are limited, the concept looks promising. However, it’s likely to be years before we see any significant changes or improvements.

    In the meantime, if you’re passing through CLT, you might want to consider alternative lounge options to avoid the main Admirals Club on Concourse C.

  • Qantas Club Membership Renewal for AA Flyers: A Steal at $260

    Qantas Club Membership Renewal for AA Flyers: A Steal at $260

    Last year, savvy American Airlines flyers leaped at the opportunity provided by Qantas, a member of the Oneworld alliance and AA’s strategic partner. For just USD $203, they secured Qantas Club memberships, which, in essence, doubled as quasi-Admirals Club memberships thanks to this alliance partnership. This unbeatable deal left many wondering if it would be just a one-time opportunity, but as it turns out, there’s more to celebrate for those who took the plunge.

    Renewal Reminder for Qantas Club Members

    If you were one of the savvy American Airlines flyers who seized the Qantas Club deal last year, it’s time to check your email. Qantas has sent out renewal notices, offering a fantastic deal for continuing your membership.

    Renewing your Qantas Club membership will only set you back AUD $410. As of this writing, that’s a mere USD $260, a fraction of the cost of an Admirals Club membership. What’s more, if you act promptly and renew before your listed expiration date, Qantas will waive the AUD $99 (USD $63) initiation fee, sweetening the deal even further. It goes without saying this fee should be paid with a card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, even if the purchase is made from the US.

    Accessing the Admirals Club with Qantas Club Membership

    Although some Admirals Club agents may have initially scratched their heads at the sight of a Qantas card, the membership is valid for access to the Admirals Club when flying with American Airlines or Qantas same-day. This benefit drew many AA loyalists to purchase a cheaper Qantas Club membership. It’s worth carrying the physical membership card to help expedite your entry into the lounge – and remember, the IATA code for Qantas is “QF” if you’re ever asked.

    Bringing Along a Guest: Qantas Club vs. Admirals Club Membership

    One drawback of accessing the Admirals Club via Qantas is the reduced guest allowance. Qantas Club members can bring along one guest on the same Passenger Name Record (PNR) when accessing the Admirals Club. This is in contrast to purchasing Admirals Club membership directly from American Airlines or Citi, which typically provides access for the primary member and up to two additional guests, regardless of whether they are on the same PNR.

    Oneworld Acceptance Varies

    While Qantas Club membership has been a fantastic deal for accessing the Admirals Club, it’s important to note that this reciprocity doesn’t necessarily apply universally among Oneworld airlines. The Oneworld Alliance is built on reciprocity, where member airlines collaborate to provide mutual benefits to their passengers. However, not all airlines within the alliance offer the same level of lounge access privileges. For instance, British Airways doesn’t sell paid lounge memberships to its own members, and therefore, they aren’t obligated to honor paid memberships from other Oneworld carriers. To access BA lounges, travelers typically need to be flying business class or hold Oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status. So, while the Qantas Club membership might grant you access to the AA’s lounges, it’s essential to be aware of the specific policies of each Oneworld airline when it comes to lounge access.

    Admirals Club Costs Soar

    While Qantas Club members are enjoying low renewal rates, American Airlines is heading in the opposite direction. The airline has recently raised the cost of an Admirals Club membership from $650 to $850 per year. Additionally, the Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard, which offers Admirals Club membership as one of its perks, has increased its annual fee from $450 to $595. To add salt to the wound, a new $175 fee has been introduced for up to three authorized users, a privilege that was previously free.

    Bottom Line

    For those who pounced on the Qantas Club deal last year, renewing your membership at just $260 is a no-brainer, especially when compared to the soaring costs of Admirals Club access through American Airlines. Keep an eye on your email for renewal notices, and don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to continue enjoying Admirals Club access at a fraction of the price.

  • Delta SkyClub Access Faces Severe New Restrictions

    Delta SkyClub Access Faces Severe New Restrictions

    The rumor mill has been churning for months, and now it’s official – Delta Air Lines is tightening the reins on its Delta SkyClub access once again, in addition to other serious devaluations to the popular SkyMiles program. If you thought the previous restrictions were stringent, brace yourselves for even more changes that might leave frequent flyers a bit disillusioned.

    Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card Members:

    Starting from February 1, 2025, Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business American Express Card Members will only be eligible for 10 Delta Sky Club Visits per Medallion Year. Card Members can earn Unlimited Delta Sky Club Access after they’ve dished out a hefty $75,000 on their eligible Card within a calendar year (though the opportunity cost of not placing that spend on a more valuable card is huge). Once that milestone is reached, they’ll enjoy unlimited Delta Sky Club Access for the remainder of the current Medallion Year and the following one. Just to keep things clear, spend tracking for this new rule kicks off on January 1, 2024, for the 2025 Medallion Year.

    The Platinum Card® from American Express:

    For those carrying The Platinum Card and Business Platinum Card from American Express, there’s also a change in the wind. Starting February 1, 2025, Card Members will be granted a mere 6 Delta Sky Club Visits per Medallion Year. However, like their Reserve counterparts, they can earn unlimited Delta Sky Club Access after reaching that same $75,000 spend threshold within a calendar year. The same spend tracking timeframe applies, kicking in on January 1, 2024, for the 2025 Medallion Year.

    Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card Members:

    Now, for those of you holding the Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Platinum Business American Express Cards, here’s the bad news – effective January 1, 2024, you’re out of luck. These cards will no longer provide Card Members with the ability to purchase access to Delta Sky Clubs. Previously, cardholders could purchase access for themselves and up to two guests at a rate of $50 per person. Unfortunately, that option is being shown the door, joining the ranks of day passes for the general public, which were eliminated years ago.

    Basic Economy Travelers:

    Lastly, for American Express Card Members who often find themselves in Basic Economy seats or their equivalent on partner airlines, prepare for disappointment. Effective January 1, 2024, you won’t be receiving Delta Sky Club Access. While those who purchased SkyClub memberships were previously barred when flying on Basic Economy tickets, those using eligible AmEx cards to access the SkyClub had enjoyed an exemption. However, that loophole is now closed.

    These changes might leave some Delta loyalists feeling a bit shortchanged, especially when coupled with the devaluation of the SkyMiles loyalty program. For now, all we can do is adapt to these new realities and make the most of the perks that remain. Remember, in the world of travel, the only constant is change.

  • American Airlines Extends Admirals Club Access for JetBlue Flyers Amid Alliance Breakup

    American Airlines Extends Admirals Club Access for JetBlue Flyers Amid Alliance Breakup

    In the ever-evolving world of airline alliances and partnerships, it’s not uncommon to see relationships come and go. And while the breakup between American Airlines and JetBlue has been in the headlines for quite some time now, there’s a little nugget of good news for those of you who enjoy the perks of Admirals Club membership.

    First things first, if you’ve been living under a rock, you might not have heard that American Airlines and JetBlue are parting ways, thanks to a judge’s order that’s been on the books for a while. This Northeast Alliance divorce has been the talk of the town, but as they say, life goes on.

    Now, here’s where the good news comes in. American Airlines recently dropped an email bombshell, and it’s a classy move on their part. They’re letting their loyal Admirals Club members know that despite the turbulence in their partnership with JetBlue, they’re not leaving you high and dry. At least, not for a few more months.

    As of now, if you’re an Admirals Club member, you can still enjoy access to the Admirals Club lounges when you’re flying with JetBlue. American Airlines is keeping the doors open to their lounges for members ticketed on JetBlue-operated flights until January 31, 2024. So, if you’ve got some JetBlue flights on the horizon, you can still kick back and relax in the Admirals Club before your journey takes off.

    After that January 2024 deadline, you’ll need a boarding pass for a same-day flight on an eligible route to access the Admirals Club. What’s an eligible flight, you ask? Well, it includes any departing or arriving flight that’s either marketed or operated by American Airlines or any oneworld® airline. This isn’t exactly unexpected, and simply represents a return to the rules in place before the Northeast Alliance was announced in 2021. So, if you’re planning on traveling after that date, be sure you’re flying AA or one of their remaining alliance partners if you’re planning on stopping by the Admirals Club.

    In the world of airline partnerships and alliances, things can change faster than you can say “in-flight snack.” But for now, kudos to American Airlines for extending this courtesy to their Admirals Club members during this transitional period. It’s a nod to the loyalty of their passengers, and it’s always nice to see a little extra hospitality in the air.

    So, there you have it, folks. The AA-JetBlue breakup might be old news to most of you, but the Admirals Club access extension is a fresh reminder that even in the world of aviation, there can still be some pleasant surprises. Safe travels and enjoy those lounges while you can!

  • Will Day Passes be Next to Go at the Admirals Club?

    Will Day Passes be Next to Go at the Admirals Club?

    As air travel has continued to regain its stride following the tumultuous wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, one particular issue has reared its head more persistently than others: the challenge of overcrowded airport lounges. The eager influx of travelers newly armed with premium credit cards that grant them access to these sanctuaries of comfort has transformed serene lounges into bustling spaces, often marked by serpentine queues and an overwhelming demand for refuge from the terminal chaos.

    For those well-versed in the art of lounge hopping, the all-too-familiar sight of “the sign” at your nearest Admirals Club location has become a sign of the times – that one that informs you that day passes and complimentary entry for military personnel are not on the menu for the day. It’s a reality that we’ve grown accustomed to, and one we see more and more as time goes on.

    As a reminder, day passes are best procured on-site. When you purchase in advance, you always run the risk of arriving to the lounge only to encounter “the sign.” There are no refunds in this situation, so now you’re left with a lounge pass to find a use for by the expiration date – a feat that only seems to get harder by the week. For this reason, it’s best to wait and purchase day passes in-person. This is especially pertinent considering AA’s recent price hike for these passes. What was once a $59 or 5900-mile purchase has now been recalibrated to a steeper $79 or 7900 miles. It’s a clear indicator that American is striving to curtail the surge of visitors clamoring for entry.

    If the overcrowding quandary at select lounges weren’t self-evident through casual observation (seriously, just go to CLT and look around), American’s recent changes certainly paint a vivid picture. Recent measures put in place by AA include:

    • The cost of an Admirals Club membership has swelled to a whopping $850 or 85,000 AAdvantage miles. This represents approximately a 31% increase from the previous fee of $650 or 65,000 AAdvantage miles. For existing members, these revised rates will only apply to membership renewals beginning September 10, 2023. We’d advise most readers to steer clear of purchasing a membership directly from AA, when it can be had at a significant cost savings through Citi. That being said…
    • The annual fee tagged to the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® has experienced an uptick from $450 to $595 per annum. For some, however, the real whopper lies in the fine print – the once-gratis Admirals Club access for authorized users has been rescinded. Instead, authorized users will now be subject to a fee of $175 for up to 3 users, with an additional $175 charge for each additional authorized user beyond the initial trio.

    Amid these changes, there may be some silver lining here. American Airlines has promised to invest in a series of lounge enhancements that will accompany this price surge. Notably, these improvements encompass an elevated selection of food and beverage offerings, signaling the airline’s commitment to justifying the augmented costs. Additionally, the stunning new lounge at DCA gives us a glimpse into the American’s vision for the future of Admirals Club facilities, with similar lounges opening at DEN and EWR later this year.

    But what could this domino effect of changes be foreshadowing for the Admirals Club and its patrons? To glimpse into a potential future, we need only peer across the industry aisle at other lounge networks that have embarked on similar journeys:

    • The revered AmEx Centurion lounges have implemented several measures. Access on arrival was removed several years ago, and an overarching 3-hour time limit has been imposed for non-layover visitors. And of course, back in February, complimentary guest access was nixed for many cardmembers.
    • Delta has taken the initiative to introduce stringent limitations on entry to their popular SkyClubs earlier this year. The sale of SkyClub memberships has been confined to Delta elites, while those flying on basic economy fares have been effectively barred. Of particular note, AmEx cardmembers with SkyClub access currently enjoy an exemption from these restrictions, though rumors are abound regarding potential amendments. As history often shows, airlines are often quick to mirror their competitors – could this be a hint for what’s to come at AA?

    The Admirals Club, even after the recent changes, still features one of the most lenient domestic access policies. While I’m not sure AA’s members have the appetite for some of the draconian measures Delta has taken, one has to wonder how long day passes will remain on the menu.

    Could we see this option eliminated altogether, or could American keep this option open to drive some extra revenue on slow days? Time will tell, but for non-members wielding a credit card with airline incidental credits to burn, day passes have previously been a great way to spend those. Before I picked up an Admirals Club membership of my own, I’d often use my incidental credit to buy a day pass when I got stuck for an extended period at an airport without a good Centurion or Priority Pass option.

    As the airline landscape continues to evolve, we’re left to ponder the next steps American Airlines might undertake. Will the allure of Admirals Club day passes be further tapered or replaced by access restrictions mirroring those of their peers? The tea leaves point to an industry-wide shift towards refining the exclusivity of these sanctuaries. Time will inevitably reveal the destination of this journey, but for now, the signs are clear: change is on the horizon.