American Express expands airport lounge access with Sidecar concept and digital tools
American Express Travel is rolling out a Sidecar lounge concept and digital access tools to broaden premium airport hospitality. The initiative was announced in November 2026 and targets its card‑member base seeking varied lounge experiences.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Introduces Sidecar lounges and digital waitlist tools for card members
- Timing
- Announced November 2026
- Who is affected
- American Express card members using airport lounges
The details
- Announced by
- American Express Travel
- Previous rule
- American Express previously offered only traditional Centurion Lounges for its premium card members.
- New rule
- The company will add smaller Sidecar lounges for short visits and launch digital waitlists and a lounge‑finder tool to manage access.
New lounge formats
American Express introduced the Sidecar concept, a smaller lounge space designed for travelers who need brief stays. This format sits alongside the existing Centurion Lounges and aims to relieve pressure on larger facilities.
- Sidecar lounges target short‑duration visits
- Designed to complement, not replace, Centurion Lounges
Digital access management
The firm is deploying a digital waitlist system and a lounge‑finder application. These tools allow card members to see real‑time availability and plan their lounge visits more efficiently.
- Digital waitlist reduces on‑site crowding
- Lounge‑finder helps members locate nearby lounges
Collaboration with airports
American Express emphasized early involvement with airport planners to influence lounge placement, elevator access, natural lighting, and overall design. Early collaboration is intended to enhance the passenger experience.
- Early design input improves location and ambience
- Focus on elements that shape passenger comfort
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers with existing lounge bookings can check the lounge‑finder tool for new Sidecar locations.
- Members should monitor digital waitlist status for any changes to lounge availability.
Cost and documents
- No new fees were announced for accessing Sidecar lounges.
- Existing card membership requirements remain unchanged.
What you need to do
- Card members should download or update the lounge‑finder app to view new options.
- Members may need to join digital waitlists for popular lounges.
Who this affects
-
American Express Platinum card members
They currently use Centurion Lounges and will gain access to Sidecar lounges.
What to do Use the lounge‑finder tool to locate Sidecar lounges and join digital waitlists as needed.
-
American Express Centurion card members
They have premium lounge privileges and will benefit from expanded capacity.
What to do Check the digital tools for updated access options.
-
Travelers seeking short lounge visits
Sidecar lounges are designed for brief stays.
What to do Select Sidecar locations via the lounge‑finder when planning short layovers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the American Express Sidecar lounge?
The Sidecar lounge is a smaller, short‑visit airport lounge introduced by American Express to complement its larger Centurion Lounges and provide quicker access for travelers.
How can I find a Sidecar lounge?
Use the American Express lounge‑finder tool, which shows real‑time locations and availability of both Centurion and Sidecar lounges.
Do I need to pay extra for Sidecar lounge access?
No additional fees were announced; access is included for eligible American Express card members as part of their existing lounge benefits.
Can I join a waitlist for a crowded lounge?
Yes, American Express is launching a digital waitlist system that lets members join a queue for popular lounges and receive updates on availability.
When will the Sidecar lounges be available?
The rollout was announced in November 2026, with the new formats and digital tools expected to be introduced shortly thereafter.
