The Ultimate Guide to Amex Lounge Access: Centurion, Delta, and More

Traveling can be stressful. Security lines, crowded gates, and uncomfortable seats. But for those holding the right card, the airport transforms into an oasis.

If you are looking to understand how American Express Platinum Card lounge access works—considered the market leader in travel benefits—you have come to the right place. This isn’t just a card; it is a “master key” to a global consortium of comfort.

Let’s decode the rules, the guest policy “catches,” and the secrets of the Centurion network.

The Jewel in the Crown: Amex Centurion Lounges

The Centurion Lounges are American Express’s showcase. These are the most luxurious spaces, featuring chef-curated food (like the famous mac and cheese in Las Vegas) and impeccable facilities. But exclusivity comes with strict rules.

How to Enter

To access, you need your Amex Platinum Card (physical or via an “eligibility code” in the app), a government-issued ID, and a same-day boarding pass.

• The 30-Minute Rule: If using the digital code from the app, generate it only when you are near the lounge, as it expires in half an hour.

• Departure Only: You can only enter before your flight (up to 3 hours prior). No using the lounge upon arrival.

The Guest Policy Controversy

Amex has tightened the screws on overcrowding. The Centurion guest policy is now one of the most restrictive in the industry:

• Free Guests? Only if you spend $75,000 USD per calendar year on the card.

• Without the spend target: You pay $50 per adult and $30 per child (ages 2-17).

The Flexible Partner: Escape Lounges

If the Centurion is the “strict parent,” the Escape Lounges (Centurion Studio Partners) are the “cool uncle.” They are an excellent secondary alternative.

• The Big Advantage: Unlike Centurion, here you can enter on arrival (after landing) as well as departure.

• Guests: Much more generous. You are entitled to 2 free guests, with no need for a millionaire spending target.

Delta Sky Clubs: Luxury for Specific Flights

For Delta Airlines loyalists, the Amex Platinum opens the doors to Sky Clubs, known for their marble design and outdoor Sky Decks.

• The Golden Rule: You must be flying Delta (or a partner operated by WestJet) that day.

• The Extra Cost: There are no free guests. Want to bring your spouse or kids? Be prepared to pay $50 per person.

The Global Network: Priority Pass and Plaza Premium

The true power of the card lies in its breadth. Beyond proprietary lounges, it offers access to massive global networks.

Priority Pass Select

This is the network that is “everywhere.”

• The Good: Guarantees access for you and 2 free guests.

• The Amex “Catch”: The Priority Pass via Amex grants access only to physical VIP lounges. It excludes the restaurant, spa, and retail credits that other versions of Priority Pass might offer.

Plaza Premium Lounges

A solid network, typically accessible on both departure and arrival (with varying time limits).

• Benefit: Like Escape and Priority Pass, it allows 2 free guests.

Summary: Which Lounge Should You Choose?

Think of your Amex Platinum as a universal pass.

1. Want maximum luxury and traveling solo? Head to the Centurion Lounge.

2. Just landed or traveling with family? Look for an Escape Lounge or Plaza Premium (friendlier guest rules).

3. Flying Delta? The Sky Club is unbeatable for comfort, but it will cost extra for your companions.

The airport doesn’t have to be chaotic. With the right strategy, your trip begins long before takeoff.

Traveler Tip: Before heading to the airport, always check the “Membership” tab in your Amex app. There you can find “Lounge Access” with real-time capacity status (from “not busy” to “almost full”). Avoid surprises and travel better!