American Airlines Will Open Large Lounge in Charlotte
The carrier plans to debut a massive 40,000-square-foot Admirals Club at Charlotte Douglas International Airport in 2028.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Business Travel
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American Airlines will open its largest Admirals Club at Charlotte Douglas International Airport in early 2028. The facility will be located on the mezzanine level of the airport atrium and span more than 40,000 square feet.
Why it matters
The expansion signals a continued investment in the facility, which serves as the second-largest hub for the airline. This project will eventually bring the total number of American Airlines lounge locations at the airport to four.
The new Admirals Club will occupy more than 40,000 square feet, significantly larger than the 14,000-square-foot facility planned by Capital One for Concourse A.
The players
American Airlines
This major airline operates one of the world's largest flight networks and utilizes Charlotte Douglas International Airport as a primary hub.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport
This aviation facility is a central hub for air travel in North Carolina and serves as the second-largest hub for American Airlines.
American Express
This financial services corporation operates a network of premium airport lounges known as The Centurion.
Capital One
This bank provides a variety of financial products and is expanding its footprint in the airport lounge market.
The details
The upcoming space will supplement existing lounges already operating in Concourses B and C/D, as well as a Provisions lounge located in Concourse A. The project coincides with other major developments at the airport, including the arrival of a new Capital One lounge and an American Express Sidecar by The Centurion lounge.
Timeline
Construction on the new Admirals Club will begin in 2026.
The American Express Sidecar lounge is expected to open in 2027.
The new Admirals Club is scheduled to open in early 2028.
Roadmap
This development follows the trend of airlines and financial institutions investing in luxury lounge spaces to capture high-value business travelers. It positions American Airlines to maintain its competitive edge at a key hub against upcoming rival lounge offerings.
Travelers should note that the new lounge will be located in the central airport atrium, providing a new option for those navigating between concourses. The phased construction schedule means travelers will eventually have four distinct American Airlines locations to choose from by 2028.
The takeaway
Travelers who prioritize lounge access can expect a significant increase in available space and options at this hub over the coming years. This shift highlights how major airports are evolving into destination-like hubs that prioritize premium passenger experiences.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving landscape of airport amenities, visit the Business Travel section.
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