Complete Guide to Airline Status Lounge Access
Compare airline elite status programs and their lounge access benefits. We'll break down what's available at each tier and help you maximize your status perks.
While airline status is one way to access airport lounges, it's important to note that basic economy tickets often restrict lounge access even for elite members. Additionally, premium cabin tickets may grant lounge access regardless of status level. We'll cover all the nuances below.
Status Required
Most airlines require mid to top-tier status for lounge benefits
International Focus
Best benefits available when flying internationally
Guest Policies
Most status levels include at least one guest
American Airlines AAdvantage Status
American Airlines offers multiple tiers of lounge access through its AAdvantage program, with the best benefits reserved for Executive Platinum members. Access to Admirals Club lounges and premium Flagship Lounges varies based on your status level and ticket type.
AAdvantage Executive Platinum
Requirements: 200,000 Loyalty Points
•Access when traveling on any Oneworld airline in any cabin
•Access to Oneworld First Class lounges when flying internationally
•Can bring one guest
•Not valid on Basic Economy tickets
AAdvantage Platinum Pro
Requirements: 125,000 Loyalty Points
•Access when traveling on Oneworld airlines internationally
•Access to Business Class lounges
•Can bring one guest
•Not valid on Basic Economy tickets
AAdvantage Platinum
Requirements: 75,000 Loyalty Points
•Access when traveling on Oneworld airlines internationally
•Access to Business Class lounges
•Can bring one guest
•Not valid on Basic Economy tickets
Premium Cabin Lounge Access
Flagship First
Lounge Access:
- Flagship First Check-In
- Flagship Lounge access
- Flagship First Dining access
- Admirals Club access
Eligible Routes:
Qualifying international and transcontinental routes only
Restrictions:
Not available with Basic Economy tickets
Flagship Business
Lounge Access:
- Flagship Lounge access
- Admirals Club access
Eligible Routes:
International and qualifying transcontinental routes
Restrictions:
Not available with Basic Economy tickets
International First/Business
Lounge Access:
- Admirals Club access
Eligible Routes:
All international routes
Restrictions:
Not available with Basic Economy tickets
Important Notes for American Airlines Lounges
American Airlines operates two distinct lounge networks: Admirals Clubs and Flagship Lounges. Flagship Lounges offer a more premium experience and are available at key international hubs including JFK, LAX, MIA, and DFW. The most exclusive offering, Flagship First Dining, is reserved for international first class passengers and top-tier elites on qualifying routes.
Basic Economy Restrictions: Basic Economy tickets exclude all lounge access benefits, even for Executive Platinum members flying internationally. This restriction applies to both Admirals Club and Flagship Lounge access.
Comparing Airline Status Lounge Benefits
When comparing airline status lounge benefits, consider these key factors:
- International vs. Domestic Access: All three airlines primarily offer lounge access for international travel, with domestic access typically requiring additional membership or premium cabin tickets.
- Alliance Benefits: United's Star Alliance and American's Oneworld partnerships often provide more extensive international lounge access compared to Delta's SkyTeam network.
- Guest Policies: Delta has implemented the strictest guest policies, while American and United maintain more traditional guest allowances for elite members.