American Airlines Targets 18 Million Lounge Visits by 2026

American Airlines expects 18 million lounge visits in 2026, an 80% increase from the 10 million visits recorded in 2016. The carrier plans to open nearly one new, renovated, or expanded lounge experience per month on average over the next two to three years, with seventy projects scheduled globally by 2027.

Passenger traffic increased by 12.1% from 2016 to 2026. For the first nine months of 2016, American and its regional partners boarded 150.7 million passengers. That figure rose to 169 million for the same period in 2026.

Lounge Usage Surges

Lounge visits are projected to reach 18 million in 2026. This represents an 80% increase from the 10 million visits tallied in 2016. The growth in lounge usage significantly outpaces the growth in overall passenger traffic.

Changing passenger behavior is a key driver. Families traveling together now often arrive at the airport earlier than solo business travelers. Longer security wait times also encourage more passengers to seek out lounge access.

Lounge Access Expands

American Airlines has broadened eligibility for its Admirals Club lounges. In 2021, the airline added access on more short international trips for premium cabin passengers and mid-tier elite status holders. The airline notes that leisure customers in premium cabins are now more than double compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Premium credit cards have also exploded in usage, further fueling demand. American Airlines sells its Citi Executive card, which includes Admirals Club membership, for a $695 annual fee. Two other Citi cards provide four Admirals Club passes annually. These card-linked passes remain valid even when one-day passes sold at the door are restricted. Each pass activation can last up to 24 hours and guests may include children, subject to flight eligibility.

For those buying directly from the airline, full Admirals Club memberships can run as high as $1,400 per year.

A New Lounge Design

American Airlines has moved away from a previous cost-cutting approach that resulted in a stark, utilitarian aesthetic, exemplified by the DFW A concourse club's 'modern hospital' feel. A newer, warmer design debuted at Washington National's E concourse in 2022. It features wood accents, warmer lighting, and a fireplace to create a more welcoming environment.

This design was rolled out to Denver and Newark lounges in 2023. Philadelphia received its new lounges in 2025. The refresh aligns with a broader industry trend where credit card companies, like American Express, have raised expectations for lounge design and amenities since opening their own premium spaces.

Regulatory changes have also played a role. Virginia, for instance, changed its alcohol laws in 2023 to extend mixed beverage carrier licenses to financial institutions and qualifying lounge operators, facilitating better service.

American Airlines' plan to open nearly one new or renovated lounge per month on average over the next two to three years shows its commitment to this premium segment.