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If you're familiar with airport lounges, chances are you've heard of American Express Centurion Lounges. Once considered “luxurious” and “exclusive,” these lounges are now more commonly associated with overcrowding, limited seating, and — perhaps most of all — absurdly long lines just to get in.
American Express is clearly aware of this, as it has attempted to combat the issue by setting time limits and restricting guest access. But those changes haven’t entirely solved the problem.
However, there may be hope after all (or at least a little). Digital waitlists for Centurion Lounges have finally rolled out via the Amex app. While the lounges will still be just as crowded, at least you won’t have to stand in a packed line just to get inside!
Here's how Amex Centurion Lounge waitlists work.
How the Amex Centurion Lounge Digital Waitlist Works
The Amex Centurion Lounge digital waitlist system is very similar to what Capital One implemented for its lounges. Customers can join a queue through the Amex mobile app.
But unlike the Capital One Lounge system, the Amex app doesn’t show you how busy the lounge is at the moment. Instead, you’ll only be able to join the digital queue if the lounge is already full (which is a pretty clear sign it’s busy). If there’s space available, you’ll receive a QR code for direct entry.
One major benefit of the digital waitlist is that it allows you to get in line earlier — even before you ever reach the lounge. For instance, you can join the waitlist while going through security or getting off a connecting flight. That way, by the time you arrive at the lounge, you're already at the front of the line.
The catch? Once you're notified that it's your turn, you have only 10 minutes to check-in. For comparison, Capital One gives its waitlisted guests 15 minutes.
So far, this feature seems to be available only in Centurion Lounges located in the U.S. However, international Amex lounges may not need it, as they typically aren’t as crowded as their U.S. counterparts.
Related: Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access
How To Join the Amex Centurion Lounge Digital Waitlist
To join the Amex Centurion Lounge waitlist, first log in to the Amex app and navigate to the “Membership” tab under your account. But note you'll only see this page if you have a card that grants you access in the first place. From there, select “Airport Lounge Access.”
Search for your airport, or the app will automatically suggest the closest Centurion Lounge. If the lounge has space, you’ll receive a QR code for entry. If it’s full, you’ll have the option to join the waitlist.
You’ll quickly confirm your personal details and accept the terms and conditions. You’ll also have the chance to indicate any guests and choose whether to receive notifications via text or email.
After confirmation, you’ll get a message that you’ve been added to the queue. Keep in mind — you won't see an estimated wait time. When you’re notified that it’s your turn, you have 10 minutes to check-in, or you’ll need to restart the process.
Related: Overview of American Express Centurion Lounge Guest Policies
Bottom Line
With more people signing up for The Platinum Card® from American Express every day, these lounges are only going to get busier. While they may not feel as exclusive as they once did, a lounge is (sometimes) still better than no lounge at all. At least now, you won’t have to waste time standing in a physical line, making that $695 annual fee (Rates & Fees) feel just a little bit more palatable.
For rates and fees of the cards mentioned in this post, please visit the following links: The Platinum Card® from American Express (Rates & Fees)
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