Major Airlines Are Reopening Airport Lounges: Here’s What You Need to Know

As summer quickly approaches and vaccine distribution continues, major airlines are beginning to ramp up their efforts to reopen airport lounges. American, United, and Delta have all made a push to get more lounges open for travelers as they begin to get back on the road. This is good news for business travelers as many pre-pandemic travel perks are beginning to reappear.

American Airlines

By Memorial Day, American plans to have 27 of their Admirals Club lounges open across 21 cities in the U.S. (in addition to select international locations). Unfortunately all Flagship lounges remain closed, but something is better than nothing so be sure to check if your airport’s Admirals Club is open prior to heading to the airport.

You can expect to see complimentary hot food and pre-packaged options offered in all open Admirals Clubs, along with signature dishes for purchase. American is introducing an updated for-purchase food menu for travelers which includes healthier options like quinoa salad and a southwestern power bowl.

Depending on what Admirals Club you’re at, you might see a few touchless enhancements to your experience - American is testing out a new touchless ordering system and touchless entry with facial recognition. 

United Airlines

Right now United has 11 United Clubs open across the U.S., but plans to reopen at least ten more over the next two months. You can find United Clubs currently open at: O’Hare, Denver, Honolulu, Houston, LAX, Newark, San Francisco, and Dulles.

Up until now United has been sticking to mostly pre-packaged food items in their clubs (think pretzels, instant ramen, peanuts). Starting later this month they’ll be introducing healthier individually-wrapped options, including sandwiches, wraps, salads, fruit, overnight oats, and yogurt. Everything on the menu right now is complimentary.

Delta Airlines

Currently, there are over 40 SkyClubs open for travelers. And by this summer, Delta plans to have all of their SkyClub locations open once again. For now, all food offerings remain pre-packaged “grab and go” items. Expect to wear your mask as all guests are required to wear one to enter. All employees will be masked, gloved, and separated by a plexiglass divider where necessary.