Why It's Becoming Harder To Get Into Airport Lounges

Over the past couple of years, airlines and credit card companies like American, United, Chase and Capital One are investing millions into expanding their airport lounge networks for customers. According to Chase, lounge access is often the top cited reason for its credit card signups, and by the end of 2023, Delta said it would add 2,700 seats to its lounges. However, lounges have become so popular that some face overcrowding, and companies like Delta are making it harder to get airline status.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
01:10 - Declining exclusivity
05:20 - The rise of luxury lounges
08:03 - Increasing premiumization
Produced, Shot and Edited by: Erin Black
Script and Narration by: Ryan Baker
Additional Reporting by:: Leslie Josephs
Animation: Jason Reginato, Andrea Schmitz, Alex Wood, and Christina Locopo
Senior Managing Producer: Tala Hadavi
Additional Footage: American Airlines, Capital One, Delta Air Lines, Emirates, Finnair, Getty Images, J.P. Morgan Chase, United Airlines
Additional Sources: Business Traveler, Simply Flying
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Why It's Becoming Harder To Get Into Airport Lounges

[@bengoacher4455]

I was in Cairo airport, the lounge was empty, no one there. So I kicked back and relaxed for the 2 hours before my flight. Half an hour in I was nudged awake by a hostess that advised I'd entered the private jet lounge by mistake and if I could kindly follow her to the business lounge.

[@WackoWambo]

Lmao

[@gdnygma490]

😂😂😂😂

[@Throp]

😂😂😂😂

[@mssha1980]

😂😂

[@notorioustori]

Lol! How'd they let you in?

[@sjdone]

I've been in lounges around the world and honestly, I've yet to feel one is worth the money you pay. The food is better than airline food, but you can buy comparable food at the airport for significantly less than the cost of annual membership for the lounges or credit cards. It's just another way to make people feel superior while taking their money.

[@t.h.1784]

Don’t bother with lounges and Airports in U.S. Europe are lousy. On the other hand, in Asia, lounges, Airports and airlines are another level, even economy class is exceptional.

[@coopa2002]

The point is many people don't pay. I go in the lounge wherever I am at due to Oneworld status, it's essentially free once you have attained status

[@jkim-pz5oo]

Business and first class lounges in the airlines home airport is worth a visit in asia and europe. North american lounges are horrible.

[@bzdtemp]

Some airports are so crap, that any lounge is a huge improvement and really like a must. And this goes double on big travel days.

[@d.b.cooper1]

Dubai, Singapore are by far best ones I've been in. Rest are fine for me....but I've also never paid for a lounge or the credit/charge card so expectations are low.

[@marchlopez9934]

1. Airport lounges are becoming increasingly popular. 2. They are expensive to build and maintain but are seen as a way to attract and retain customers. 3. Overcrowding is a challenge for lounge operators. 4. There are over 3200 airport lounges worldwide, with the US having over 300. 5. First and business class tickets usually come with lounge access for international travel. 6. Branded credit cards allow customers to earn elite status with airlines, which includes lounge access. 7. Premium travel credit cards like American Express Platinum offer lounge access and travel credits. 8. As more people are willing to pay for premium tickets, the average airline ticket price has decreased, and lounges are becoming more accessible.

[@cute-e-degen-kf8rf]

the rise of lounges... the decline of "credit card" rewards... congress is coming for your points.

[@barbecueman6352]

It’s interesting how this video didn’t cover the fact that every loyalty program/frequent flyers is actually, fundamentally, a bank

[@badgerfishinski6857]

Most intelligent and informed comment on this blog. Thank you for pointing that out. 99% of society doesn't realize that it's just a bank. Same with the airline credit cards... which is probably what you are saying too.

[@Sequaloid]

A little dramatic there

[@drewconway7135]

This video is about airport lounges, not loyalty programs. Yes, they are related, but different subjects

[@badgerfishinski6857]

@@Sequaloid As Ray Croc was actually building a real estate empire. Hamburgers were just the vehicle.

[@barbecueman6352]

@@drewconway7135 explaining the financial incentives of the program that funds the lounges would have improved the video and actually answered the question why loyalty members get lounge access while first class passengers sometimes don’t even tho they pay more up front.

[@marks4471]

The lounges were worth it back in the early 2000's; now there are just too many people and as a result, the service and quality have gone downhill. Airlines are really nickel-and-diming their customers with the creation of different tiers of economy class. We all, on the same same flight number, take off and land in the same plane, from the same gate going to the same destination, so I don't mind flying economy and saving a ton of money.

[@johniii8147]

Yeah, the lounges use to be worth the membership fees in the US back during my very heavy travel period back in the day. They didn't have many people that could access them them ( though the food offerings were worse at the time generally). Nice break from the airport and could actually get things done. Now they can be a total zoo now that my travel is picking up again.

[@wez123123123]

I was sexually assaulted in an airport lounge shower !!

[@MVK_GS]

I had the most wonderful lounge experience from 2004 through 2008. I used to fly out of Miami very often for work and would spend time in the American Airlines lounge prior to my flights. Since I was connecting through Miami International prior to my next flight, I would sleep, eat, and even shower there. It was so awesome. I do not know what that lounge is like today, though.

[@AYVYN]

I don’t understand, do they have a buffet, strippers, and a full gym? What’s even the point

[@BobNewbie]

Its proven however that people are willing to pay for the experience though and that's what they're exploiting.

[@CassidyListon]

I once had a three hour layover in Chicago, and I was gonna try out the Delta lounge for the first time... but because of the way that stupid airport is laid out, it would've meant going through security AGAIN just to get there, and then going through security AGAIN to get to my connecting flight. Nothing is worth that.

[@wez123123123]

I was sexually assaulted in an airport lounge shower !!

[@TrainerAQ]

Getting my rear end checked once is enough for one day.

[@Aus200]

Get the TSA Pass and you won't have this problem.

[@a5m4s_]

Had this same problem flying into and out of LaGuardia this year. Such a pain in the ass.

[@pixiet7321]

I hate ORD

[@danielle2661]

Everyone complains about overcrowded lounges and long lines to get in, but when an airline restricts access and makes it harder to avoid long lines and overcrowding (like Delta recently tried, before they had to backtrack) people get enraged. The truth is everyone wants to restrict others right under them. They all still want access, but want to restrict anyone else who may have slightly less spend, or slightly lower status, or a different credit card than they do. But guess what? EVERYONE wants the cutoff to be right below themselves. If everyone is special, then no one is special. Where do airlines draw the line? Because no matter what, that group that gets cutoff will be very vocally screaming about how it's not fair, how loyalty means nothing, etc., etc., then also complain on twitter (refuse to use the new name) and be snapping pics for instagram about how the lines are sooooooo long and the club is soooooooo crowded and it's not restrictive enough. Round and round it goes.

[@killer2600]

True, and I get around it by avoiding those elitist clubs. I save so much money by not trying to mold my credit card choices and spending to getting status and lounge access. I mean unless you fly at least weekly year round, how beneficial is a lounge? Really? You stay there for a little bit before or after your flight, it's not like you stay there over night.

[@ThePTRichie]

Perhaps the best comment on here. 👍

[@wez123123123]

I was sexually assaulted in an airport lounge shower !!

[@vmoses1979]

Well airlines in their pursuit of more money from premium tickets allowed larger and larger groups access to the lounges. Now of course they can't rescind it without howls. Blame the airlines because we live in a very entitled age.

[@AYVYN]

They’re pretty dumb, you don’t get angry at an apple for being sweet, you just pick it off the tree.

[@lothean2099]

My lounge is so exclusive, even if you got in you don't stay. Its french.. called La Trine. You get your own covered booth with a chair called the Com Mode. You can sit there till your flight is called, listen to music, sleep, and even eat snacks. Sometimes they release exotic fragrances that are never the same. I love La Trine, it lets me take a load off. 😉

[@BellaLola26]

Lmaooo I had to read it twice to get it 😂

[@TiredKenyan]

You’re crazy

[@tribaltroll]

Exotic fragrances lmao

[@gardenrxpert6573]

Spray some French parfum after Le Trine use. Oh la la! Ces’t la vie.

[@jerrynadler2883]

Better than any duty-free fragrance, I've tried many times to bottle that scent to take home by visiting a neighbor's booth, but I got a black eye instead.

[@patrickvernon1570]

I was flying out to basic training and some rich guy wouldn’t let me say no, and took me into a sky lounge and bought me a drink. As a working class guy I never forgot that.

[@destroyerofsimps6574]

Probably back in the day when lounges meant something. Now everyone and their grandma are at the lounge

[@csrjjsmp]

He was trying to bang you

[@alfianmuhammad1335]

I met a girl in Hong Kong who apparently had a lounge-access for two and she invited me in. The irony was that I was the one who flew business class (that was closed during midnight hours) while she actually flew economy. Her dad just happened to own a kind of priority pass that allowed access for two persons.

[@mia1shooter]

yeah no shyt, they said they got more popular, whats your point?

[@SpaceRanger187]

That's why you get the Navy Fed flaghship card so you can get into these places

[@flightTime123]

It’s not that lounges are becoming harder to access, it’s that they got way TOO easy to access, and they’re trying to dial it back again

[@crsbcn007]

This. This 1000%.

[@M-su4mh]

Social media definitely plays a huge part in this with influencers and even just casuals boasting their travel experiences going from the airport to the destination which often comes with staying at an "exclusive" airport lounge. When other people see this they want to get in on the action which has led to overcrowding and increased demand with a lot of these lounges.

[@JashanKhurana]

Exactly, that's very true. They romanticise everything. Post Covid, it def saw a massive surge

[@Sequaloid]

that’s a very small factor

[@JashanKhurana]

@@johnjack3578 Get your facts right

[@shanejive6292]

Most people don’t care for social media. That’s too small to be a factor. But I actually think some lounges like Delta Sky Club are moving in the right direction

[@Louisz14]

It do because everyone wants to have that amex

[@PHOENIX1699]

"It's not about making money, it's about making you feel better about the exorbitant amount we've already charged you"

[@kueller917]

I've never been in a lounge and honestly it's been fine. My only real gripe is expensive airport food but the terminal I usually depart from has a chain bakery with consistent pricing. Outside holidays and peak summer it's not hard to find a seat somewhere in the gates. And I try to fly a bit earlier when it's empty. It's not luxury but it's far from uncomfortable. A snack, a place to sit so I can read or phone scroll, and a window to see the airplanes pushing back. That's all I need to pass the time.

[@TheLovliestTear]

I literally just said the majority of what you did! I don’t want much from an airport. I just want to get to my destination safely and alive.

[@megganvoustas1185]

Agreed, some airports have charger station high-tops now at the gate and those are definitely more convenient if you need somewhere to eat and be on the laptop. I only go the lounges if I can get it reimbursed on the company card and need a booth to take business calls, otherwise, it's the gate or a nice airport restaurant I go, lol.

[@turbo2ltr]

I've seen the American lounges at PHX routinely be standing room only during peak times I get lounge access through the AA Executive card that my company pays for. But not only is the annual fee going from $450 to $600, over the past few years, they've made changes to the rules that make it much harder to get the upgrades that they consider benefits because everyone and their grandmother seem to be eligible now. That free 1st class upgrade benefit isn't worth much when I'm number 37 on the wait list.

[@mdleweight]

I use the first lounges when flying internationally, but dropped my domestic lounge memberships due to overcrowding. The waiting areas in the main part of the airport are often less crowded.

[@johniii8147]

Those are former US lounges. Always been dumps.

[@wez123123123]

I was sexually assaulted in an airport lounge shower !!

[@kammyr4082]

They want to return it back to the exclusive rich people lounge. Rich ppl won't mind the increase.

[@jerrynadler2883]

The centurion lounges are just OK. I remember asking for champagne one time and the woman gave me Prosecco without saying anything. I know now champagne is only for centurion card holders, but she could've told me instead of trying to insult my intelligence like I wasn't going to taste the difference.

[@pokepress]

I was fortunate enough to be upgraded from Premium Economy to Business (due to an aircraft change) on a flight from Narita to O’Hare back in August. I got to use the lounge as a result, and while it was nice, it’s not a privilege I would regularly pay for.

[@wez123123123]

I was sexually assaulted in an airport lounge shower !!

[@flyingpanhandle]

I used the BA OHare lounge last week. It was massively underwhelming. BAs lounges at Heathrow blow it out of the water, as does Manchester Airports own Aspire lounge.

[@jerrynadler2883]

lucky! I mostly fly upgraded business class since it's much cheaper than buying the business class ticket outright and they always get stingy with their lounge access for upgraded tickets.

[@spoenk7448]

I don't think it's worth it either. I much rather just spend less time at airports. I usually fly Ryanair out of smaller European airports so quite often it's not even an option.

[@jaker3151]

To enjoy the facilities of some lounges you really have to arrive a good few hours before your flight.

[@taylorspastpresent1014]

True You have to be good with time management lol It has come in handy during a last minute flight delay. American is frequently delayed

[@andrewsandoval2685]

I remember reading a forum post that a lot of these lounges have become really trashy with people devouring food and getting plastered right then and there, it's less like a classy place to relax but for rampant hedonism for the card holders.

[@paradonym]

And then you just hear that you can only check in three hours before takeoff and you're in a lounge experience rush.

[@adamdejesus4017]

It's not about check-in, it's about the layover. If there's lounge access, you happily take a slightly longer layover.

[@DS-hq6oi]

@@adamdejesus4017 Yup why get pampered for 5 hours when you can make 1-2 stops and get pampered for 11?

[@KaiserShield]

Maybe airports having proper lounges for masses of flyers to rest during long layovers would help with the pressure. Then airlines could focus on the luxury and exclusivity rather then space or capacity. Since restaurants in the airports are overpriced to the point that the credit cards and airline lounges are actually cheaper with more value if you fly often.

[@Bartonovich52]

Just like the Titanic was paid for with 3rd class steerage tickets… so airlines exist solely by coach fares.

[@romeogerolaga7505]

I disagree with you. Lounge should be for the folks that always spending money. Its bad enough you got the folks from the ghetto flying and now you want them access to lounges. Ill keep sticking to international flights

[@johniii8147]

@@romeogerolaga7505 Agreed.

[@texastuna]

@@romeogerolaga7505 Seeing all the entitled comments here is amazing. If everyone gets a lounge, no one gets a lounge.

[@iirekm]

You don't need "miles cards" and things like that to access airport lounges, many (if not most) offer daily passes for $60 or so, alternatively you can simply go to an airport restaurant and rest there while sipping a drink. And this can be actually a cheaper option than owning a "magical" credit card, collecting flight miles, paying for xxxxx Discount Club subscriptions etc - most of them are meant to essentially rip off unaware consumers by make them spending a loooot more than they would normally do.

[@casamayer]

Well it use to be a nice perk... Amex ruined their lounge experience with too many cards issued and priority pass is a joke. Most of these newer companies getting in on the "we want to reward our customers" are behind the curve already.

[@Said_w_the_G]

Priority Pass is pretty much a knock-off as far as food goes, but bathrooms are better and so is seating compared to the gates. And at half the cost of an executive club, it’s tolerable.

[@raz2548]

I agree, not once could I use Priority pass in domestic and international airports. It's garbage. Centurion lounges are nearly always full and it's not even that good. The one in Charlotte was almost ALWAYS far away from the gate

[@crshoveride]

It heavily depends on where you travel. Domestically I use centurion lounges. Abroad I've used priority pass and honestly the lounges abroad have been better than anything that American Express has offered with centurion lounges. I haven't not had crowding issues in 2 years now. The service is a joke too. One day flying out early I was at the lounge at open and all they had available was fruit. I was so confused. They said they wouldn't have hot food ready for an hour and a half.... I kind of felt like a Karen at that moment just from how I was thinking but my flight was in an hour. So I didn't get to get a hot breakfast or anything. I asked friends about their lounge experiences and I mentioned my experience and they thought I was joking. They said they always had hot food ready at open in their lounges. This is just in DFW though I will say. I've walked out of the lounge before and gone to capital one to pay to get in. I went in and told them about the joke of the experience I had with amex a year ago and they actually let me in for free even though I didn't have the card at the time. Completely different lounge experience. Actually felt like I was in a lounge. No crowding, better food, nicer staff... The only thing keeping me from cancelling my amex plat business card right now is that capital one only has two lounges in America right now. If they had one or two on west coast id cancel my plat right now since I regularly connect through west coast. I feel like centurion lounges are just better to grab and go at this point. I've seen crowding in their lounges worse than actually at the gate sometimes. It's ridiculous. Priority pass like I said though at least in my experience has been so much better than centurion lounges at least abroad comparing to the centurion lounge experience domestically for me at least

[@jerrynadler2883]

domestic the priority pass is useless. Even the few lounges that are listed on their app won't let you in during busy times, which is basically all the time. Internationally it's a lot better, and there's usually one solid option in every international airport. Although in Egypt one time it was just a room with 5 chairs and bottled water.... and the light wasn't even turned on.

[@RasheedahsWifeSchool]

I had the black card access thanks to my husband. I was told that this was a card for rich people. Well I guess there are a lot of rich people, because it was packed and there was no place to sit unless I wanted to clean my own table and chair. I found the business class lounge with Etihad to be better with larger showers that had better lighting. Travel is difficult now I think because there are just so many people who are told that they are elite members with airlines/hotels and there is an overwhelming "do you know who I am" attitude.

[@laylaalmansour9200]

I like lounges but I always felt like they’re missing the elite essentials, like private shower rooms, and private mtg rooms and sleeping area. And an onsite makeup/hair bar! Imagine getting a quick touch up before landing and heading straight into a meeting. Now I would pay big bucks for that. Not just a place to sit and eat snacks.

[@TheLovliestTear]

NOW, HERE’S AN IDEA!!!!! 💡💡💡💡

[@laylaalmansour9200]

@@TheLovliestTear Someone should really give me a call - I have so many ideas to make going into an airport lounge a status symbol - the simplest and most visible way to do that is to make lounge goers look relaxed, clean, and put together - since all the other travellers look exhausted and disheveled!

[@bussin1337]

that already exists, except the makeup bar lol thats a cool idea

[@JBoy340a]

Depends were. United lounges in some cities,SFO, etc have some of those. Luftansa in FRA definitely has those in addition to 10 or so locations. There is nothing like a show after sending all day coming from the state. Also, at FRA the sleeping spaces are nice, but there are other people in other pods. The food is also good at FRA and they have a wide variety of different types of rooms. Some are small for a small travel group of a family or two, and some are open where you just get a table. If you want makeup done there seems to be a number of places in the makeup sales area at FRA.

[@edwardjones4870]

I pay annually for access to the United Airlines lounges. Where once I found peace and quiet I now find crowds of people competing for a place to sit down. This is even true of Polaris lounges which are limited to international travelers in business class. Recently I had access to the British Airways lounge at Heathrow's Terminal 5 because I was flying in business. It was absolutely packed, and I was lucky to locate a seat. I no longer feel that I’m getting my money's worth!

[@wez123123123]

I was sexually assaulted in an airport lounge shower !!

[@paigestatham6363]

We travel for fun about every 6 weeks, both long haul and quick weekends away, if a lounge is available to us either through loyalty or credit card perks we will try to get in, so far, we’ve always had access. Some are definitely better than others. The free wine before a flight is a nice treat, but my favorites are the shower lounges especially when we’ve done a full day of exploring before a late red-eye helps with the icky feeling on the plane.

[@christinechen6322]

Can't wait for a Spirit lounge one day. Wonder what that would look like.

[@badgerfishinski6857]

It would look like the inside of a NYC subway car. ... and I wouldn't be surprised if you get robbed and stabbed while relaxing in the SPIRIT lounge. lol

[@aaronlee4913]

Then you will become a spirit.

[@sonyab2u974]

WWE

[@warmike]

So a JetBlue lounge

[@celieboo]

😂

[@thattannerguy856]

When I travel I want to spend the least amount of time in the airport. I'd rather be spending time in whatever city I'm in for the maximum amount of time I can

[@user-pe3tt7iu7g]

yeah, it's only good for layovers

[@supacheef1]

​@@user-pe3tt7iu7g but I'd literally stab my eyes out before I take a layover itinerary

[@philnleblanc6664]

Airport lounges have become nothing but a cash grab now. I remember when they used to be so exclusive but now anyone can be in there and they’re massively overpriced, overvalued, and overcrowded. No different than being in the regular terminal.

[@oldtwinsna8347]

All the schmucks identified as you see them waiting in those crazy long lines so they can score some free food as if it were a glorified soup kitchen for the poor. Like these lines have longer waits than those going through TSA lines. Sad to even see it.

[@choosey87]

I don't stay at an airport long enough to use a lounge. I be pushing it sometimes making it to my flight on time 😂

[@BlownMacTruck]

Yeah, you don't get it.

[@choosey87]

@@BlownMacTruck Explain

[@BlownMacTruck]

@@choosey87People with lounge access don’t worry about getting there too early. You can give yourself a wide amount of time to get there because it doesn’t matter if you’re chilling in a quiet lounge away from annoying crowds and airport chaos. When your boarding time comes, you head over to the gate and bypass the line. In other words, it’s a completely different way of using an airport. Since you’ve never experienced this, you don’t get it.

[@malcriadamedina5358]

@@BlownMacTruckalso you totally misread the persons comment, they said they don't get there early, they get to the airport just in time to board the flight.

[@BlownMacTruck]

@@malcriadamedina5358God, you missed the point too. Timing getting to the airport, getting through security, plus the walk to the gate (all extremely variable) makes arriving just before boarding annoying. Add in delays and gate moves and everything else that can and does happen, and it’s pretty dumb to bank on arriving right at designated boarding times. The point is you don’t have to worry about any of that AT ALL.

[@robinperronjones5024]

I have travelled domestically and internationally on airlines for business and pleasure for over 40 years, I have had the pinnacle of loyalty cards over this time, but I can honestly say other than having a private jet which I don’t, the air travel experience has decreased significantly to a standard a lot less than decades ago.

[@badgerfishinski6857]

I am in your shoes too. Thinking of how it used to be compared to the way it is today, just makes me cringe.

[@geegeelast7597]

Actually I remember taking my first flight in the mid 1970’s. It was a fabulous experience. The last time I flew (which was in 2022), it was a truly miserable experience. I felt as if I was in “steerage”.

[@SydneyChandler]

It's a horrible experience now. a complete clownshow.

[@nateisright]

Airports are bus stations now.

[@rasul407]

Greyhound experience lol

[@lifevest1]

"Traveling in style ain't worth the money or time unless you're flying on the company dime."

[@hondaopportunity8107]

I used to go to my favorite lounge each time I had a flight. Recently, I rather just seat outside, and be on my own. Frankly, all you see is people eating like they have never eaten before, and for the fees that these companies charge, it doesn't feel exclusive anymore. Years ago, the idea was to have a great and relaxing experience. This days you go in, and is full, no were to seat, it is not pleasant anymore.

[@DS-hq6oi]

If it's Canada they probably haven't eaten they can't afford to.

[@user-pe3tt7iu7g]

and sometimes the food is better outside the lounge. it's become a place for alcoholics too.

[@GeeBee212]

So you have a need to feel exclusive?

[@petek5523]

@@DS-hq6oi but they can afford to pay for lounge privileges?? Makes no sense mate 🙄

[@onetwo12onetwo526]

Bet that none of them feel compelled to leave a tip 😢

[@jimbo0715]

The Disney World of Lounges - the hysteria about this is hysterical. I take a sandwich with me if I have a long wait - much cheaper.

[@wez123123123]

I was sexually assaulted in an airport lounge shower !!

[@somluck2813]

When I was travelling a lot, I had lounge access, but I rarely used it. What I did was change by flight while I was in the taxi on the freeway going to the airport. I changed my flight booking such that I would get out of the taxi and walk straight to gate and board the plane. Why wait???

[@danielarroyo06]

prior to the pandemic I was using Priority Pass for all my lounge needs, and it was awesome, you really felt special. Fastforward to today, that's no longer the case. I visited Frankfurt last week and all lounges were packed and the food choices were terrible. They also treat you like a production cow, many times I couldn't get in because there was no space. :/ Sucks.

[@ChrisOwenHalper]

Lounges are OK, but my preferred perk is skipping lines at the airport. So, VIP counters, early boarding, express security, etc…

[@Liz-in8lu]

I like that way for travel too! No way do I want to be at the airport longer than needed.

[@oldtwinsna8347]

@@Liz-in8lu Have to agree, no way you'd catch me staying a minute longer than I need to at an airport. I'll go out of my way to arrange a schedule to be elsewhere.

[@orielespinosa6208]

They should be open 24hrs! I have been in many red eyes and no lounges are open. It makes it worthless to have the privilege and now being able to use them

[@fredfolson5355]

I love having access to airport lounges. Sometimes they reach 80-90% capacity, sure; but to me that beats the severly over crowded common areas elsewhere in the airport.

[@msriram9884]

Singapore, Doha have amazing lounges.

[@30minutelunch]

Even with access to the Centurion Lounge, nothing beats the warmth of the dear old USO lounges.❤

[@jerrynadler2883]

Never get a travel card just for the lounge access, that's asinine. Only get it if you actually travel a lot and are accumulating enough miles on the card to offset the annual fee.

[@TheSportsandFilmFellowship]

SFO has the best airport I’ve been too. It’s so relaxing in San Francisco. San Diego too

[@transitengineer]

Have been a Life member of a major US airline Airport Lounge since the 1980's. Back then, I used to fly for business about twice a month. Before, 9/11 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) it was great to arrive about three (3) hours prior to departure and just drop your bags off with a Sky Cap. Afterward, it was off to whichever Airport Lounge you had access too until about 1-hour before flight time (smile...smile).

[@paullewis2413]

I’ve been flying business class long haul for around 12 years now and while I’ve seen more of these lounges opening up the experience overall has gone down. Being able to pay for access when you’re flying economy has negated the experience as it’s caused overcrowding too many times. Unless I’ve a long layover (which is rare) most of the time I don’t even bother anymore.

[@jerrynadler2883]

Single day access is like $95 per person. Who is paying that knowing dam well they're not getting $95 in stuff?? I would just take my $95 to an airport bar/restaurant. Although those are usually packed too.

[@alexnogues4246]

Damn too many of those poor people around huh!?

[@Cwgrlup]

@@alexnogues4246basically, yeah.

[@Cwgrlup]

It’s pretty disappointing when they lay out stale, prepackaged bagels now and you see economy flyers stuffing their pockets with as many as they can take with them.

[@alexnogues4246]

You sound quite snooty @@Cwgrlup I'm glad I'm not your neighbour.

[@comet3nb]

Why don’t we make the entire airport nice for everyone…

[@BrandonClark-StocksPassports]

Because humans always seek to differentiate themselves from other people

[@jasonfang8517]

It’s all about the money. Where would the money of renovating the airports come from? At some point the cost will eventually be spread among the travelers

[@Aus200]

Can you pay for it all please?

[@davidpham9353]

funny the broke people wanna have the same standard as people who pay money for their comfort =))

[@randolfo1265]

Sure, and solve world hunger while they at it

[@matthewjustice7198]

Nice summary and review of the overall lounge situation.

[@RayaAndy]

Good. If everyone gets access to a lounge, then it just becomes another crowded airport spot, which is exactly what they were designed to get away from. People really spend $100s to get $20 worth of free food 😂

[@mrk131324]

True for the US. In the civilised parts of the world, airports are still fun.

[@GH-oi2jf]

I tried the Alaska lounges a few times when they had a program that made them accessible to occasional flyers. I found them underwhelming - barely worth the discounted price. Now, they require annual membership, which definitely rules them out for me.

[@DJRenee]

They should keep it limited and exclusive if they want it to last for the long haul. I would add a walk through for some of the amenities so they can still feel a part of the lounge and sell or give away labeled exclusive items

[@adityabenwalca]

Same case here in in India too. Easy access to credit cards with lounge access features have increased the crowding at airport lounges. Due to this, in the last six months, one card which I hold has removed the lounge access feature. While two others have added a restriction of minimum spends to get the lounge access which was not there earlier.

[@ChrisWoodhead2811]

I got a priority pass through AMEX and half the time I can’t even get in the lounge, then when in there they’re packed. Nothing premium about them.

[@Schlabbeflicker]

Lounges have only become something that airlines think they can draw customers with because air travel has become so miserable. The seats are small, the timing is inflexible, and the security wait is long and unpredictable. if flying was more like train travel, there would be no need for lounges because everyone would show up 15 minutes before their flight.

[@Milestonemonger]

As a business class ticket holder, I was shocked to see how crowded the Sky Lounge was. I paid extra $$$$$ for privacy and comfort. It's ridiculous.

[@npoaccount9154]

Cope

[@user-lt5no1xt1z]

There are more rich people now😂

[@Louisz14]

Exactly

[@rossugiarto4036]

I remember lounges used to be fancy. Now the only nice thing about it is the shower.

[@appgetupside3137]

I have been with Delta for many years and have held Diamond or Platinum membership for most of those years. I frequently fly on international flights, but I rarely visit Delta lounges. Delta lounges are often noisy and crowded, resembling a supermarket. Moreover, many people there behave as if they are the most important individuals in the world, creating an unpleasant atmosphere. Most of the time, I prefer to find a quiet corner at some gates where there is nobody, or I seek out a nice and quiet restaurant. I don't understand why some people are so enthusiastic about these lounges, even to the point of obsession. Airport lounges in Asia, Dubai, some European countries are far better than Delta lounges.

[@buhner1991]

Not sure when you last visited a Sky Club, but they extremely nice now a days. The one in Seattle is HUGE, I've never seen it crowded, and has great food and baverages. The only knock I would give Sky Clubs are their use of paper plates and plastic cutlery. The staff is friendly and informative. I fell asleep in the one in Orlando, a staff member came and woke me up because my flight had started boarding. I will agree, no domestic carrier lounge can compare to lounges overseas, but boy are they trying.

[@solidamanda]

lounge access in the united states is very stupid to me these days. i'd rather spend a meal in an airport restaurant and not be bothered by overcrowded lounge people.

[@freddytang2128]

Why spend money if your credit card give you free access to lounge and there’s a buffet inside

[@dsong2006]

People on average consume like 30-50dollars worth of food/drinks in their ~1hr in a lounge. Some lounges offer borderline fine dining and premium alcohol for free. Why would you pay for garbage airport food which is also super overpriced when you can get at least decent food and drinks for free?

[@killer2600]

@@freddytang2128 Because you usually have to spend more to qualify. I mean if you're flying 1st class all the time then by all means enjoy the extra perk of the lounge but so many that aren't necessarily wealthy will adjust credit card and spending choices to get lounge access and other perks typically associated with big spenders/frequent flyers.

[@killer2600]

@@dsong2006 $50 is 10x cheaper than the $500 some people spend on annual fee for a single credit card that gets them lounge access the few times they fly every year. Nothing wrong with the lounge itself but some (actually many) people buy their way into the lounge and when you do that it's typically not a benefit but an expense.

[@bestt2252]

"Borderline fine dining and premium alcohol for free". Um if you're at a lounge outside of the US perhaps (but this video isn't about foreign lounges). US lounges offer complimentary "non-premium house liquors" at best (no premium alcohol as you assert) and I wouldnt consider the buffets they offer "borderline fine dining" 😅 @@dsong2006

[@lmc2664]

Apparently, airfares have been spiked up since post-Covid. For instances, I had paid usd3400 in summer 2020 for Delta One from NYC to HKG. Today, it costs almost usd9000 for the very same destinations.

[@Steven-xf8mz]

that's more of a China-US thing rather the airline thing. I think there are restriction of some sort on both sides. Flights between NYC and Japan vs NYC and China is just way too different when you look at timing and pricing.

[@lmc2664]

@@Steven-xf8mz unsure if politics have anything to do with it but when I compare Delta with Cathy Pacific, United Airlines and other renown international airlines, somehow Delta’s prices are at least 2.5 times higher.

[@johniii8147]

Well that would be strange since DL discontinued service to HKG in 2018.

[@Steven-xf8mz]

@@lmc2664 Airports are governed by local govt, both sides has limitation on # of flights, and these flights aren't always split to every airline equally. If a specific flight is 2.5x higher, who would fly it? Airfare are dynamic, it's not a flat rate since the tickets goes online. Like i said from my original statement, check out flights between NYC and Tokyo, perhaps NYC and Seoul, then NYC to Beijing/Shanghai. China and US agreed to more flights few months ago that started in Sept which might help lower the airfare, but this may not matter if demands trickles higher.

[@lmc2664]

@@johniii8147where did you get this news from? I flew to HKG via Delta not once but twice in 2019.

[@JamesNY718]

It’s not that people are more willing to pay for premium seats. Airlines in America have packed planes with so many seats that your legs can’t get room anymore. I have flown delta for too long and I have seen how much economy has shrunk more and more. I can no longer sit in economy seats and I haven’t gotten taller from 10 years ago.

[@davidrayner9832]

Australian here. I live in Sydney and worked in Karratha (look it up on a map) and did the return trip with Qantas once a month for ten years. I made gold which gave me access to the regular Qantas lounge in Australia plus theirs and all partners' business lounges outside Australia in six months with a guest in tow who need not be flying but only before my flight, and Platinum which gave me access to Qantas' business lounges in Australia plus theirs and all partners' first class lounges outside Australia after a year with two guests before and after a flight. I'd use the lounge in Sydney, Perth and Karratha on every trip and find it incedible that domestic travellers in the US can't access the lounges. Back in 2018, wife and I went to the UK via Dubai and let me tell you, you haven't lived until you've been in the Emirates (Qantas partner) first class lounge in Dubai. Came back via Singapore and Qantas' lounge there was very nice as was the one at Heathrow. Going to Spain next year via Dubai both ways with a 10 hour layover on the return. To have someone wait on us hand and foot (I'm not exaggerating) for 10 hours will be hard to take but we'll manage. Oh, I made lifetime gold after nine years so even though I left that job four years ago and only fly occaisionally now, I have lounge access all over the world (One World) for life and just to top it off, all flights to and from work were paid for by the company so all this didn't cost me one red cent. Long story short, lounge access makes a huge difference to flying, even if you go economy. Funny story - there are two ways to leave the Emirates 1st class lounge in Dubai and which one you use depends on where your seat is on the plane. I asked the attendant and she asked to see my boarding pass to see where my seat was. When she saw I was in an economy seat, the look on her face was utterly priceless. She couldn't believe I was in there.

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

I pay a big annual fee to AMEX to get into the Delta Lounges. Last year it was well worth it because I was traveling two times a week and the long layovers in Atlanta were less frustrating. But I have had times when getting into the lounge was a very long wait, or I had to travel across to other terminals to get to one that was less busy. I think it's time to drop the loyalty. For regular travelers maybe it's worth it, but now that I only travel occasionally I can just find a restaurant, or sit it out. Plus traveling to Atlanta first isn't always the smartest or most convenient option.

[@mithunaich5969]

then come to Bangladesh and take a MX card it takes a hundred dollar annual fee

[@Richardlizhu]

I feel like this is a tragedy of the commons scenario. Lounges are nice when it's premium, but if everything is "premium", then nothing is, right?

[@ShidaiTaino]

Well it’s not really the commons is it.

[@morningsunshine0216]

The centurion lounge in Denver is awesome. But if they restrict my access and say I need to purchase 75k first then I’m definitely cancelling my Amex platinum card.

[@kxmode]

5:42 That TWA lounge is very cool!

[@MrStrangeTech]

Just go to the bar at whatever airport you're in. Very few screaming children at the bar, which means almost no entitled parents. You also lose all of the entitled rich people who are at their designated rich person place. Grab a few drinks, and chill out. Had a wonderful experience at Toronto's airport over the summer at the bar with a beautiful runway view. Got a few drinks, and people left me alone. $0 entry fee. No line. The drink prices weren't even that bad. I've seen videos of the Maple Leaf lounge at Toronto, and honestly? The publicly accessible bar was leaps and bounds better.

[@nonenadanull]

Some people have such low self esteem that "elite" titles give their ego the boost they didn't get from home.

[@d.b.cooper1]

Hmm...depends on the country. Don't go to a bar in the UK pre a flight seeing as it's a tradition for many to get truly wasted before flights, always a loud lads or girls holiday/hen/stag do etc. Also rich people in lounges? It's just the working/middle class now, most big airports/airlines have their own lounges solely for 1st/business class now

[@oldtwinsna8347]

@@d.b.cooper1 Some have separate terminal access areas for the "true" rich people vs the posers.

[@michellechmelev7439]

I kinda agree lol

[@krystle8287]

Airports need to create their own spaces like this for a budget-cost friendly lounge for travelers with long connection times who are essentially trapped at the airport for more than 3hrs. This could be good for the airports too by creating new revenue if they do it right & provide some relief to the airline lounges that are now over-crowded and no longer as relaxing.. like Delta’s lounge in some you can’t even get in & have to stand outside in a line to wait for just the space to be in there, even if you pay for the executive level membership. It’s ridiculous.

[@badgerfishinski6857]

Most other countries in the world do.... but the USA? LOL... that's a good one!

[@aaronlee4913]

The new BKK airport in Thailand has more than 10 lounges you can choose from and so does Seoul in Korea.

[@texastuna]

Why would anyone cater to budget travelers? Why does everyone feel entitled to something special? Because when everyone is special, no one is special.

[@badgerfishinski6857]

@@texastuna as a budget traveler I'm not looking to be treated special. I don't expect luxury. I just wanted to be treated humanely. Just a decent place to rest. It doesn't have to be luxurious like an actual lounge. Most airports that I've been to in Europe and Asia have such things ...even for budget travelers.

[@HealthElites]

That is opposite of what a business would do. The objective of a lounge is exclusivity. It's like you didn't watch the video.

[@JohnDoe-tx]

After 2 years we cancelled our Priority Pass. Lounges are packed, not traveling enough to eat so-so food.

[@soldierboywannabe267]

I remember when they used to give vets space in the launches but they value profit over courtesy now

[@MrMountainMan]

I'm all for the clamping down on access to get back to some exclusivity and lower crowds. Last few times through Atlanta, the bathrooms in the Delta lounges were ironically nastier than the main terminal bathrooms. That's NOT the fault of custodial or the Delta employees. The lounges are over-packed and it's just a mass number of people in there vs. the smaller bathrooms available not able to handle the traffic.

[@warrenbates2949]

Cattle.

[@antmakka-zl2zz]

I used to do lounges on a semi regular basis. I enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere along with free food and drinks. Then they became more crowded and noisier. By the time there were lines of people waiting to get in I decided to stop. Now they're very poor value for money.

[@oldtwinsna8347]

Anyone waiting in those kinds of lines is basically a cheapo who just wants "free food". I even saw people taking extra food off the buffet to put into containers so they can not only snack on it on the flight, but to actually have full meals after they arrive at their destination.

[@solasoul33]

So grateful for lounges honestly the fact that you can shower while in transit is so convenient. Really hate not feeling fresh in a different country so I recommend you always pack an extra outfit for your layover. The lounge in Abu Dhabi you will still find your luggage right where you put it is a blessing.

[@anthonyyoung6489]

It should be harder to get into lounges. Used to be exclusive. Now it’s a nightmare. Triple the price immediately.

[@stevegonzales3612]

My wife & I are both top tier with United (1K - Star Alliance), and British Airways (Gold - One World), and we have noticed that lounges can and/or have been full! We've never been turned away from a lounge, but trying to find a seat can be a challenge...both in United's Polaris Lounges and British Airways first class lounges. My sole purpose is to have a meal before boarding since I don't eat on the flights. Once I hear the double ding (10,000 ft), I recline to a bed and sleep throughout the flight.

[@BobBrown.]

It’s because you have *G and one world sapphire. They never turn these members away. They only turn away credit card holders and priority pass members.

[@scrat8177]

cool story bro

[@jerrynadler2883]

yeah that's my main reason for the lounge as well, to avoid that horrid airplane food.

[@qwestpond1687]

It's good that it became harder. There were too many people. I want it to be more exclusive. It should only be for rich people like me :) Not for families who earned silly points through daily credit cards. It's painful to watch them taking photos and filming the lounge.

[@BrandonClark-StocksPassports]

You and i are the only 2 people who understand this. Rich guys think alike

[@nessinay1535]

Y'all just sound sad.

[@darickfoxo7986]

If you look at the price of groceries or restaurant food then you shouldn’t be allowed in the lounges

[@usasupra23]

How do you have that much free time to do this? Most times your on schedules and no free time to play around unless delays that are not planned. I much rather be on my way home or to destinations than sitting in a lounge. I don’t get it.

[@scotto7924]

I mostly do longhaul flights (7 to 11 hrs) and better nit to eat before so you can look forward to the airline meal during the flight.

[@alparmajor5125]

This is a US problem, because the US is the only country where everyone has free status via a CC or other easy to access means.

[@darickfoxo7986]

It’s Amex fault for giving out those platinum card like it’s candy. Chase you actually need a 740 fico score or above to get considered for their premium cards as as good banking relationship. When they start building more lounge it will be back to the old days

[@KAWTELENUH]

I never even thought about going to a airport lounge. I dont even think i have enough time to enjoy it. I don't want to be in the airport longer than i need to be.

[@BlownMacTruck]

People who post things like this completely miss the point. No one wants to be in the airport longer than necessary. Lounges make it so it doesn't matter how long or short you're there.

[@jerrynadler2883]

yeah but you also don't want to miss the flight and there are a million X factors from your front door to the gate starting with the uber who is never on time, to traffic, to security....I always leave myself 1.5-2 hours and that's where a nice lounge, some free food & alcohol hits the spot.

[@supacheef1]

​@@BlownMacTruckthere is no lounge that remotely compares to my house or hotel. Thanks, I'd rather stay there. Also, I will never book a layover trip. Nonstop or I'm not going. If your city doesn't have nonstop service from my city then it's probably not worth going 😂

[@BlownMacTruck]

@@supacheef1 You've basically told everyone you're a travel noob with that comment. I seriously doubt your house is better than the Qatar lounge at Doha, unless you have attendants at your place giving you fresh, warm towels after shower in a completely decked-out private suite, or cooking anything from a giant menu at three different restaurants (and that's just the surface). If you have no intention of having a layover, you've effectively shut yourself off from giant chunks of the world. You clearly fly the budget airlines to domestic locations (and even then, you're struggling to balance arriving at the gate on a knife's edge and failing most of the time, while I haven't worried about any of that and bypassed the boarding line when I got to the gate), so yeah, it's clear you don't get it.

[@thomasd4738]

@@BlownMacTruck I'm sure I've flown a lot more than you, and I agree with supacheef1

[@saynotop2w]

feels good having the access to USO

[@jamestreanor182]

I dont much fly domestic, and recently was shocked when I found out that my domestic 'first class' ticket didnt included lounge access. LOL

[@UnfilteredCactus]

Ban them kids

[@electronicManan]

Even your everyday middle class person thinks they need lounge access because most airports are so dirty and overcrowded. Soon lounges will become the baseline experience... for only $29.99!

[@NutsAndThighs]

In crappy terminals I can definitely see it as a big draw to escape the airport. Compare that to new modern terminals, where the experience inside versus outside the lounge is not too dissimilar so I (personally) don't feel I'm missing too much.

[@danielrustico]

Alredy so. Priority Pass basic membership consts 90€ / year (70€ first year) and allows you to pay 30€ per visit. To be honest I prefer this system. Pay as you go, in case of a long lay over or early arrival at the airport.

[@badgerfishinski6857]

It's a damn conspiracy I tell ya! ;-/

[@theodoreolson8529]

The USO lounge welcomes me 🙂 Access to airline airport lounges doesn't even make the list of stuff I worry about.

[@Captain_Aubie]

Um, issue millions of additional credit cards eligible for lounge membership without a corresponding increase in the number of lounges or lounge capacity (Delta).

[@NicksDynasty]

Let the employees back in..

[@vacafuega]

Screvv the whole "i'm more important than you so i deserve comfort" bs. Lounges take up airport space that should be allocated to more seating and facilities for all. Being rich and entitled isn't a need, it's a mental affliction though.

[@segundolizardo6667]

I had used airport lounges for the last 15 years , at this moment is useless to go to the centurion lounge, it’s better just to find an space around instead of fighting for a spot.

[@Charlesbjtown]

Am I the only one that gets to the airport right when I need to be (two hours ahead)? And rarely have long layovers. I don't understand the appeal of those lounges.

[@pbnjtamwichfpv]

This video is incredibly hilarious lol *laughs in smart consumer*

[@SnurX]

Just kick out credit card holders, give access to loyal customers only… fixed

[@TurboK24z]

That won't work with Centurion/AMEX

[@jonot207]

I prefer to sit near the gate ready for boarding. Actually stress about missing my flight when sitting in a lounge. I mean, who wants to spend more time than they need to in an airport? And yes, airport lounges are so over crowded it's unpleasant.

[@ryanh603]

I will not be renewing my Alaska lounge membership for next year. I don’t fly enough out of Seattle (nearest major airport) and their offerings are not worth the $450 membership that I paid nearly a year ago. Because Seattle does not sell day passes anymore (due to overcrowding and to “protect their members”), the 2023 price increase to $500, and their credit card program is through Bank of America which is hard to get approved for; I chose to try the annual membership. After this year’s experiences of waiting for a chair to become available and only continental breakfast offerings, I have determined the Alaska lounge membership is not worth $500. Maybe I will start flying Delta more often to build up points.

[@roachtoasties]

More and more hoops a traveler must go through to access a lounge for what may just be a visit for an hour or two. Even if you do qualify for the lounge, will you really want to go to it? LAX has about 10 terminals linearly connected to each other. If you're flying, lets say United and are an American Express Platinum member, do you really want to hike all the way through multiple tunnels and walkways from United's terminals to the Bradley Terminal where the lounge is, then back again? I wouldn't. What's more relaxing is just hanging around a restaurant in the local terminal. This lounge thing is over-hyped. The lobby in the hotel you're staying at, or another hotel next door, probably is nicer. It's free too, except for any food and refreshments you buy. Nothing wrong with that.

[@justpf]

Seems to be very US-biased, read "luxury", "exclusivity" and other similar bs. In Europe I am perfectly happy to use (ultra)low-costers and take with me a snack if I want to. Used to be a frequent with miles-and-more due to work but it was impossible to keep the status after I quit. Do I miss the free booze and mostly unhealthy food options of the crowded lounges? Not really :)

[@coopa2002]

I'm not sure where you live but I wouldn't be sure about status costing so much if you're careful with it. I achieved OneWorld Emerald for the equivalent of approx 1800 euros

[@shmookins]

How can they be full if they are so expensive to get in to (must be a business class ticket or higher, or pay that ridiculous annual fee)?

[@d05wtt]

It used to be quiet and there were plenty of seats to sit at and food/drinks were readily available. Lounges were a good place for weary travelers to relax and refresh from a long traveling day. Ever since having a certain credit card gave you access to a lounge, it’s been crowded and service has been mediocre at best. Get rid of the credit card access and go back to the old system of only allowing people with airline status or who are traveling in business class and above that day to be allowed into lounges. Then it won’t be crowded anymore.

[@jamesg2254]

The loyalty programs have definitely gotten out of hand, it was very easy to get silver status just on vacation alone for me. It makes sense they want to adjust loyalty programs, but to me I would rather they do it by market. For example DTW's lounges are never full so there is really no need to restrict access there just because JFK is full.

[@timberwolfe1645]

JUST because you say 'premium' doesn't mean they make your seats bigger

[@alexmanne]

My membership in the military gives me exclusive access to the lounge called the USO.

[@TrainerAQ]

Lounges should be hard to get into. It should be the cream of the crop. Otherwise you just get overcrowding and people who don't appreciate it.

[@aarongutierrez1597]

Just build lounge only airports. Instead of a lounge at the airport. The whole airport is a lounge.

[@jerrynadler2883]

that's gold jerry, GOLD

[@Phlegethon]

I didn’t realize centurion lounges were a relatively new thing

[@weil9525]

The problem is not because the lounges don't have enough seats, it is the fact flights tend to arrive (transfers)/depart during rush airport hours. If take a flight in the evenings, the lounges are hardly 50% full.

[@P10634]

I used to access the lounges with my family for food and a nice break from the airport. Now I access the restaurants to escape the lounges.