American Express has announced plans to open the 13th and 14th locations in its signature airport lounge network, The Centurion Lounge, at London’s Heathrow Airport and Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina, USA.
The Centurion Lounge at Heathrow Airport will be the first location in Europe, and the second location outside of the USA. The Centurion Lounge at Charlotte Douglas will be one of the largest locations in the network.
Chris Cracchiolo, SVP, global loyalty and benefits, American Express, said, “Both in business and their personal lives, our Platinum Card Members are living more globally, and we are committed to meeting them wherever they go. London has long been a top destination for our Platinum Card Members, so it makes perfect sense to bring our first Centurion Lounge in Europe to Heathrow.
“We’re also looking forward to bringing The Centurion Lounge to Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which is one of the biggest connecting hubs in the USA.”
Opening in 2019, the new Centurion Lounge at Heathrow will be located post-security in Terminal 3 and span 7,000ft² (650m²).
In addition to the amenities found across other Centurion Lounge locations – such as premium showers and private noise-buffering work stations – the Heathrow lounge will feature amenities influenced by London’s distinctive food, drinks, and design.
John Arbuckle, head of property at Heathrow, commented, “We are really proud to welcome Europe’s first Centurion Lounge to Heathrow. The lounge will offer a unique and premium experience for American Express customers and a comfortable haven, bringing to life the essence of modern British hospitality.”
Open to passengers in 2020, the Centurion Lounge at Charlotte Douglas International Airport will be located post-security on the top floor of a new expansion at the intersection of Concourses D and E, near the airport’s central atrium.
Spanning more than 13,000ft² (1,200m²), this location will be one of the largest in the Centurion Lounge network, with floor-to-ceiling windows will offer sweeping airfield and downtown skyline views.
The new lounge will also feature the amenities found across all Centurion Lounge locations, including complimentary food and beverages, mixologists and wine experts, a family room, premium restrooms and shower suites, access to high-speed wi-fi, and noise-buffering workspaces. The lounge will also encompass local food, beverage and design influences.
Ted Kaplan, director of business and revenue, Charlotte Douglas International Airport, said, “We are excited to welcome The Centurion Lounge to Charlotte Douglas International Airport in 2020. As the sixth busiest airport in the country, we are constantly seeking ways to improve the customer experience at the Charlotte Douglas Airport.
“The opening of the Centurion Lounge will fit that bill by providing the Platinum Card and Centurion Members among our 46 million yearly passengers a premier space to relax and take in the sights of Charlotte Douglas before heading off to their next destination.”
Access to The Centurion Lounge is complimentary and exclusive to American Express Platinum Card and Centurion Members. Platinum Card Members may enter with up to two travel companions at no additional charge. Centurion Members may enter with their immediate family or up to two travel companions. Platinum Card or Centurion Members may purchase access to The Centurion Lounge for additional guests for US$50 per guest.
American Express is hosting a pop-up Centurion Lounge in London’s Covent Garden (pictured) from December 13-16.