Because sitting by Gate 45 next to a screaming toddler is a choice. And you, dear reader, have options. If you’ve got the Amex Platinum Card (UK), congrats – you’re holding a golden (well, platinum) ticket to some of the world’s best airport lounges. We’re talking bottomless flat whites, showers that aren’t questionable, and peace and quiet away from the boarding gate scrum. Let’s explore what you get, where you get it, and how to milk every sip of champagne out of it. We’ll also see where your Amex Platinum will allow you lounge access.
In This Post
The Lounge Access Lowdown:
With the Amex Platinum, you get access to a posse of lounge networks:
1. The Centurion Lounge Network (Amex-run)
- Swanky lounges in the US, Hong Kong, and beyond
- Expect decent hot food, craft cocktails, and the occasional art installation
- Tip: They can get busy, so arrive early if you want a seat (especially JFK & LAX)
2. Priority Pass Select Membership
- Access to 1,400+ lounges worldwide (but not Plaza Premium in the UK)
- Includes guest access: you + 1 fly buddy for free
- Use it for layovers in cities you’ve never heard of (hi, Muscat!)
3. Plaza Premium Lounges (direct Amex partnership)
- Access without needing Priority Pass
- Great in LHR T2, T4, and HKG – known for good food and strong espresso
- Tip: Often better than BA lounges for short-haul schmoozing
4. Delta Sky Club (when flying Delta)
- Amex Platinum gets you in solo (no guest)
- Mostly US-based but well-stocked and less chaotic than the terminal
5. Escape Lounges (US)
- Smaller lounges in US airports (like Oakland or Minneapolis)
- Think snacks, free drinks, decent Wi-Fi, and a lot less chaos
How to Get In (Without Looking Lost)
- Centurion/Delta/Escape: Just flash your Platinum card and boarding pass
- Priority Pass: You’ll need to register for your free card or use the app’s QR code
- Plaza Premium: Use your Platinum card directly – no apps, no stress
WingTip: Always carry your physical Platinum card. Some lounges are still living in 2013 and don’t accept the app.
What’s Actually Inside?
- Unlimited drinks (yes, including bubbles)
- Hot meals, not sad sandwiches
- Wi-Fi, comfy seats, plugs, and sometimes showers or spa treatments
- Peace, quiet, and somewhere to cry after your third delay of the day
Not Included: Champagne fountains, foot rubs, or guaranteed child-free zones. (Sorry.)
Any Limitations?
- Some lounges (like Centurion) have time limits – usually 3 hours pre-flight
- Peak times = packed lounges, so have a backup plan
- Not every terminal has a lounge you can use – always check before banking on it
Final Thoughts
If you travel more than twice a year and enjoy complimentary snacks, lounge access alone can justify a chunk of the Amex Platinum’s £650 annual fee. It’s one of the easiest perks to use – no fine print, no complicated hoops.
Just flash the metal and float away from the chaos.
WingTip: Lounge access = less stress = fewer in-air tantrums (yours or someone else’s).
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