Don't Overlook These Major Updates to Airport Lounges in 2024

For frequent flyers, accessing airport lounges for free is a win. Some travelers get free access by having a premium credit card in their wallets, while others have earned this perk by achieving elite status with their preferred airline.

If you enjoy hanging out in airport lounges, you'll want to know what airport lounge updates are happening in 2024 and beyond so you're informed.

Some flyers and credit card holders will no longer have access to lounges, while others will need to be frequent flyer program members to be allowed to buy day passes to visit select lounges.

Fewer Delta flyers and cardholders will get Delta Sky Club access

In September 2023, Delta announced upcoming changes to its SkyMiles frequent flyer program, which will begin in 2025. The airline also announced some Delta Sky Club lounge changes, which started on Jan. 1, 2024.

Here's what you need to know:

Delta customers flying on Basic economy tickets no longer qualify for Sky Club access.

Additionally, travelers with select Delta credit cards can no longer purchase Sky Club visits. This change applies to Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card (see rates and fees) and Amex Delta Platinum Business Card holders.

If you're a Delta loyalist who typically purchases Basic economy tickets or has either credit card in your wallet, you should be aware of this update.

American Airlines will limit single-day pass purchases to AAdvantage members

In early January, American Airlines announced upcoming improvements to its AAdvantage program, which will begin March 1, 2024. The company also teased airport lounge changes that will happen later in 2024.

American Airlines operates premium Flagship Lounges in select airports. The airline allows adults 21 and older to purchase single-visit Flagship Lounge passes for $150 or 15,000 AAdvantage miles. This is available to adults flying on same-day American-operated flights. However, this privilege will only be extended to AAdvantage members later this year.

Travelers flying on a same-day American-operated flight can purchase single-visit passes for Admirals Club lounges for $79 or 79,000 AAdvantage miles. Later this year, only AAdvantage members will have this privilege. But it's worth noting that it's free and easy to join the AAdvantage program.

Some changes will happen in 2025

While the above changes have already begun or are going into effect this year, other airport lounge changes are set to begin in 2025. If you have a Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card or Capital One Spark 2X Miles card, here's an upcoming change that will impact you.

Both of these cards offer cardholders two complimentary airport lounge visits per year. These benefits can be used to access Plaza Premium Lounges or Capital One Lounges.

This perk will no longer be available after Dec. 31, 2024. In 2025, cardholders must pay a fee of $45 per person to access Capital One Lounges. Knowing about this upcoming change and planning for it can be a win for your personal finances.

Stay up to date on airport lounge news

If you use airport lounges, staying abreast of the latest news is beneficial. Knowing whether you're eligible to access a lounge for free or by purchasing a day pass before you arrive at the airport can allow you to be more prepared. If you want complimentary airport lounge access, check out our list of the best credit cards with airport lounge access.