Business

American Airlines unveils plans for VIP ‘Flagship’ lounge at Charlotte’s airport

Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways

AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.

Read our AI Policy.


  • American Airlines will add a Flagship Lounge and expand Admirals Clubs at CLT.
  • Lounge upgrades include local chef-inspired meals, spa showers, and kid areas.
  • CLT remains a key hub with 90% of flights operated by American and PSA Airlines.

American Airlines is adding another luxury lounge for passengers at Charlotte’s airport, the company announced Thursday.

The new “Flagship” lounge will offer a premium experience, including a champagne greeting upon arrival and meals inspired by local cuisine from award-winning chefs at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Other planned features include a specialty cocktail bar, premium wine tables and spacious seating.

American will announce construction details, costs and the opening date for CLT at a later time.

The airline is also planning to expand its Admirals Club lounge at the Charlotte airport. American currently operates two Admirals Club lounges in Concourses B and C/D.

The airline opened its Provisions by Admirals Club on Aug. 19 — a first-of-its-kind space for customers seeking a quick break, snacks, or beverages before their flights. It is in Concourse A, next to Gate A1.

Both the Flagship and Admirals Club lounges will feature comfortable seating, bars and dining areas. Additionally, the lounges will have private spaces with spa-style shower suites, workstations and a kid-friendly family room.

Flagship lounges are available at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, Los Angeles, Miami and Philadelphia.

Here’s a look at a premium lounge that American Airlines said it will be bringing to Charlotte’s airport. Only a few other airports have this lounge concept.
Here’s a look at a premium lounge that American Airlines said it will be bringing to Charlotte’s airport. Only a few other airports have this lounge concept. American Airlines

How to visit the CLT airport lounge

Access to the Flagship lounge will be available to AAdvantage Platinum members and higher, or to eligible international travelers with certain Oneworld statuses. A single-visit pass will be available for $150 or 15,000 AAdvantage miles.

Passengers can enter the Admirals Club with a membership, a qualifying airline status or the Citi/AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard. A one-day pass will be available for $79 or 7,900 AAdvantage miles.

American Airlines’ Provisions by Admirals Club is one of several lounges available at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The company is planning to add a new luxury lounge to the airport.
American Airlines’ Provisions by Admirals Club is one of several lounges available at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The company is planning to add a new luxury lounge to the airport.

American Airlines at CLT

CLT is American Airlines’ second-largest hub, accounting for roughly 90% of all flights out of the airport. These flights connect passengers to more than 170 destinations in 27 countries.

The Fort Worth, Texas-based company employs 15,500 people at Charlotte Douglas and its subsidiary, PSA Airlines.

PSA is relocating its headquarters from Dayton, Ohio, to Charlotte and plans to be settled by January at Water Ridge Office Park in the Eagle Lake neighborhood. The move was driven by Charlotte having the most daily departures and training for the airline, along with high passenger volume, according to the company.

This story was originally published August 28, 2025 at 11:55 AM.

Chase Jordan
The Charlotte Observer
Chase Jordan is a business reporter for The Charlotte Observer, and has nearly a decade of experience covering news in North Carolina. Prior to joining the Observer, he was a growth and development reporter for the Wilmington StarNews. The Kansas City native is a graduate of Bethune-Cookman University.
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER