Credit card companies and airlines are competing for premium travelers at Philadelphia International Airport. American Express announced it will more than double and renovate its Centurion Lounge near Gate A14 in Terminal A-West. The lounge closed on October 16 for construction and is expected to reopen by late 2027. The project follows major lounge openings by Chase and American Airlines at PHL.
American Express said the lounge will grow from roughly 6,000 square feet to more than 12,000 across two floors. It will add seating and quiet areas, as well as a Blue Roast coffee and wellness bar offering espresso, cold brew, seasonal drinks from local roasters and health-oriented food. The design will draw on Philadelphia’s history and art and showcase work by local artists.
The lounge opened in 2017 and is a premium amenity for eligible American Express Platinum and Centurion cardmembers. Complimentary meals, drinks and seating made it popular, but its smaller footprint compared with newer lounges led to crowding. PHL Chief Commercial Officer Kate Sullivan said the renovation would give the lounge a distinct Philadelphia character and improve the airport experience.
Chase opened its approximately 20,000-square-foot Sapphire Lounge in the connector between Terminals D and E in February last year, with a beer garden, game room, showers and food made with local restaurant partners. American Airlines opened its new Flagship Lounge and Admirals Club in Terminal A-West in May last year. Together they span about 25,000 square feet, offering dining and seating for eligible international business-class travelers and qualifying members. Escape Lounges is also preparing a paid-entry lounge in Terminal D.
The growing premium card market is fueling competition. American Express, Chase and Capital One use lounges to strengthen the value of cards with high annual fees, and lounge access is becoming a factor for travelers choosing a card. Mordor Intelligence estimated the global airport lounge market at $9.96 billion in 2025 and projected $13.95 billion by 2031.
During construction, eligible Amex cardmembers can look for other options in the Global Lounge Collection. Access depends on the card and each lounge’s policies, so passengers should check their options and eligibility before travel. American Express plans to reopen the expanded lounge by late 2027 and did not disclose construction costs or capacity.