American Express is adjusting access rules for its highly sought-after Centurion Lounges, effective July 8, 2026. The changes aim to address overcrowding – a long-standing issue in these premium airport spaces – by introducing stricter limitations on guest access and connection layover durations.
New Guest Restrictions
Under the updated policy, Centurion Lounge cardholders will no longer be able to bring guests who are not on the same flight. Currently, the lounge permits guests flying on different itineraries, a practice that contributes to congestion. The new restriction requires guests to be traveling on the same flight as the cardholder, aligning lounge access with immediate travel plans.
Connection Layover Time Limits
American Express will also impose a five-hour pre-departure limit for cardholders utilizing Centurion Lounges during connecting flights. Previously, no time restriction existed for passengers with confirmed connections. While the three-hour standard for non-connecting flights remains, the new rule caps lounge access to five hours before departure even if passengers have a longer layover.
Why These Changes Matter
These modifications signal a continued effort by American Express to manage capacity within its Centurion Lounges. The network’s popularity has led to overcrowding, diminishing the premium experience for cardholders. By tying guest access to flight itineraries and capping connection layover times, the company hopes to discourage non-urgent lounge visits and prioritize travelers with immediate travel needs.
The impact on frequent travelers remains to be seen. The flight-matching guest rule may inconvenience those who previously used lounge access to meet colleagues or provide hospitality to individuals on separate schedules. The connection layover limit could also affect passengers with longer layovers who previously relied on the lounge for extended comfort.
Long-Term Trends
These changes fit into a broader trend of premium credit card issuers tightening lounge access rules. Overcrowding, combined with the rising costs of maintaining these lounges, is driving issuers to implement stricter policies. Additional restrictions may follow, including increased guest fees, spending requirements for complimentary access, or tiered access based on card status.
Conclusion
American Express is making incremental adjustments to Centurion Lounge access to address overcrowding. The changes, while minor, underscore the increasing pressure on premium lounge networks to balance exclusivity with capacity constraints. By prioritizing immediate travel needs, the company hopes to maintain a higher-quality experience for its most valuable cardholders.
