American Express has outlined a series of expansions that will strengthen its Centurion Lounge network at several major airports. The plans include a significantly larger facility at Newark Liberty International Airport along with upgrades at Houston and Philadelphia. These moves reflect ongoing investment in airport amenities for premium travelers. The details were reported by The Points Guy ([1]).
Newark Facility Sets New Scale for the Network
The Newark project stands out for its size. Originally planned at 18,000 square feet, the lounge will now exceed 30,000 square feet across two floors in Terminal A. This will make it the largest Centurion Lounge when it opens, surpassing the current leader in Atlanta.
Three distinct bar experiences are planned inside the space. A main bar will offer craft cocktails and curated wines. A specialty bar will draw from New Jersey diner traditions, while a terrace bar will highlight Italian heritage with gelato, pastries, and cocktails. A Blue Roast coffee and wellness bar will provide espresso, cold brew, smoothies, and light bites. Dining options will feature contributions from chefs including Kwame Onwuachi, Mike Solomonov, Mashama Bailey, and Sarah Grueneberg.
The expanded Newark lounge will complete American Express coverage across the three primary New York-area airports. Travelers passing through the region will gain another dedicated space once construction finishes.
Expansions Underway at Houston and Philadelphia
At George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, the existing Centurion Lounge will grow from 8,000 square feet to more than 23,000 square feet. The project will add a second full-service bar, additional seating, showers, and restrooms. A Blue Roast coffee and wellness bar will join the layout, along with a specialty dining concept tied to local culinary traditions. Completion is targeted for 2028.
The Philadelphia lounge at Philadelphia International Airport, which opened in 2017, will nearly double in size to 12,000 square feet across two stories. Renovations begin October 16, with a temporary closure during the work. The refreshed space will reopen by the end of 2027 and incorporate design elements inspired by the city’s history and local artists.
Additional Lounge Developments and Access Details
A second Centurion Lounge is planned for London Heathrow in Terminal 5. The 9,000-square-foot facility is scheduled to open in 2028 and will join the existing lounge in Terminal 3. It will feature premium food and beverage options, varied seating, dedicated work areas, a VIP section, and design references to London’s cultures and the River Thames.
These four announcements build on earlier network additions, including a new lounge in Boston and expansions at other U.S. airports. American Express continues to add capacity as demand for lounge access grows among premium cardholders.
Access to Centurion Lounges requires a same-day boarding pass. Cardmembers may enter up to three hours before departure on originating flights or up to five hours before a connecting flight. Complimentary entry is available to holders of the American Express Platinum Card, Business Platinum Card, Corporate Platinum Card, Centurion Card, and certain Delta Reserve cards when flying Delta-marketed or operated flights booked with a U.S.-issued American Express card. Guest policies and any applicable fees vary by card.
Key points for travelers
- Newark lounge will become the network’s largest upon opening in 2027.
- Houston expansion reaches more than 23,000 square feet by 2028.
- Philadelphia lounge doubles in size and reopens by end of 2027.
- Second Heathrow lounge planned for 2028.
These developments add meaningful capacity at busy hubs. Travelers who use these airports regularly will encounter more space and varied amenities as the projects reach completion.
AI Disclaimer: This article was created with the assistance of AI tools and reviewed by a human editor.