Charlotte, NC, August 29, 2025
News Summary
American Airlines has announced the construction of its first Flagship lounge at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, enhancing travel amenities for high-status passengers. This premium lounge will feature amenities such as champagne greetings and chef-inspired menus, catering to the needs of travelers. Although the opening timeline is pending, this move will help solidify American Airlines’ significant presence at CLT, which currently operates multiple lounges and is set to expand its services with the upcoming headquarters relocation of PSA Airlines.
Charlotte – American Airlines has announced plans to build its first Flagship lounge at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), marking a significant upgrade for the airline’s services in the region. This new lounge will complement the airline’s existing Admirals Club lounges at the airport, enhancing the overall travel experience for the millions of passengers who utilize CLT each year, making it the airline’s second-largest hub.
The construction details, along with the timeline for the lounge’s opening, are yet to be announced. However, the introduction of the Flagship lounge, which currently has locations in cities like Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, and Philadelphia, is a move aimed at offering premium amenities designed to cater to the needs of high-status travelers.
The new Flagship lounge will offer several premium features, including champagne greetings and locally inspired menus crafted by award-winning chefs, designed to enhance guests’ pre-flight experiences. Furthermore, existing Flagship lounges typically feature distinct “neighborhoods” that cater to a variety of traveler needs. These include relaxation areas, bar and dining sections, spa-style shower suites, workstations, and family rooms.
American Airlines currently operates three lounges at CLT: two Admirals Club locations located in Concourses B and C/D along with Provisions by Admirals Club situated in Concourse A. This expansion comes as the airline prepares to welcome the headquarters relocation of PSA Airlines to Charlotte in January 2026, which will further bolster the airline’s operations in the region.
American Airlines serves over 170 destinations across 27 countries from Charlotte, with CLT accounting for approximately 90% of all American Airlines flights operated from the airport. The airline employs around 15,500 team members at CLT, underscoring its significant presence in the area.
Access to the Admirals Club lounges requires either a membership, qualifying oneworld status, or the Citi AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard. One-day passes are available for a fee of $79 or 7,900 AAdvantage miles. In contrast, access to the Flagship lounge necessitates Platinum status or higher for AAdvantage members, as well as non-AAdvantage oneworld Emerald and Sapphire members traveling on qualifying itineraries. Single-visit passes for the Flagship lounge will cost $150 or 15,000 AAdvantage miles.
This move is particularly significant for American Airlines as CLT is the only international hub without a premium lounge for business-class travelers. The introduction of the Flagship lounge will allow American to elevate its services in Charlotte, ensuring travelers receive a higher quality experience before boarding their flights.
Key Features of the New Flagship Lounge
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Premium Amenities | Champagne greetings, award-winning chef menus |
| Relaxation Areas | Comfortable lounge seating |
| Bar and Dining | Diverse menu offerings |
| Workstations | Business-friendly environments for work |
| Family Rooms | Dedicated areas for passengers traveling with children |
FAQs
What is the Flagship lounge at CLT?
The Flagship lounge is a premium lounge space set to open at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, designed to enhance the travel experience for high-status passengers.
Who will have access to the Flagship lounge?
Access requires Platinum status or higher for AAdvantage members, or non-AAdvantage oneworld Emerald and Sapphire members traveling on qualifying itineraries.
What amenities will the Flagship lounge offer?
The lounge will feature champagne greetings, locally inspired menus, relaxation areas, bar and dining sections, spa-style shower suites, workstations, and family rooms.
When is the Flagship lounge expected to open?
Construction details and the opening timeline will be announced at a later date.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- American Airlines News
- Axios: American Airlines Plans Lavish New Lounge at CLT
- Charlotte Observer: American Airlines Lounge Expansion
- The Points Guy: American Airlines Lounge Expansion in Charlotte
- View from the Wing: Charlotte Airport Lounges Overhaul
- Wikipedia: Charlotte Douglas International Airport
- Google Search: American Airlines Flagship Lounge
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Airline
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