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American is, no doubt, upping it’s game. But are too many people on the playing field?
American is renovating and refurbishing lounges here, there, and everywhere. The latest and greatest of these lounges is in one of their biggest hubs, Chicago. I currently have a One World flight on the books from Chicago to Europe just after Christmas and this means…I’ll be able to check this bad boy out. Hopefully I’ll be able to actually get a seat. Entrance seems to be pretty wide open for a first class lounge.
Having just been to the Qantas First lounge at LAX this month, it’ll be a great comparison of top-flight US lounges with sit down meal service. It’s also looking likely that I’ll be flying Transcon business in October and have a chance to review the new Flagship Lounge in New York ( JFK ) as well. Miles is ready to drop some bows to get a seat… Let’s take a look at what AA has in the works for their new Flagship First lounge in Chicago.
A peek at what they will offer.
You may need to bring along a little Southern Hospitality…to get a seat.
The entrance restrictions to this lounge are fairly liberal and I think they’ll surprise most of you who haven’t investigated the details.
Obviously if you’re flying in International First you’re going to get in. But also if you’re flying First in any 3 cabin, Transcon First Class, domestically.
The biggest difference there is if you would like to bring in a guest. Guests are only allowed if you’re traveling internationally. To compare…you do not get in other First Class lounges with domestic flights.
Here’s where things could get a little crowded. You also have access if you’re flying in business class.
Yep. International or Transcon ( described below) Business Class gains you entrance. Same guest limitation as First.
Flying International in a cabin lower than Business? Doesn’t limit if you if you have at least Mid Tier, Platinum, Status. My goodness, is it getting hot in here?
That’s right. You can gain Flagship access if you just have Platinum status.
Are you serious…I just want some hummus and to put my feet up. Here’s where all the ex-American One World status holders have an upper hand. Domestic access in coach.
If you maintain status in an ANY One World airline other than American Airlines, you can access Flagship lounges when flying domestically…in any class of service. And you can bring a guest. BAM!
A little heads up
While you gain access to the Flagship lounge, only those seated in First Class ( International or transcon) on American will have access to the Flagship First Class sit down dining facility.
I’ll be sure to report back.
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