American Airlines is expanding its lounge network with a new Admirals Club at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). The facility will span 12,000 square feet — double the size of the airline’s existing Austin outpost — and will feature an open-air terrace, a first for any American Airlines lounge.
New Design, Familiar Location
Construction is slated to begin later this year, though no official opening date has been announced. The new lounge will be located on the west side of the terminal, which is currently undergoing expansion. Passengers can still access the existing Admirals Club during construction.
The addition reflects a shift in American’s lounge strategy, following promises of a “steady stream” of improvements. In December, the airline announced plans for upgraded facilities at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and Chicago O’Hare (ORD).
Previous Plans Abandoned
This isn’t American’s first attempt at an Austin lounge expansion. In 2021, plans for a new club near Gate 14 were scrapped. Flight data from Cirium shows that while American scaled back operations in Austin by 20% last year, it still operates significantly more flights than it did before the pandemic.
Competition and Airport Growth
Austin’s growth as an aviation hub is partly driven by Delta Air Lines, which has designated the city as a key focus area. The airport itself is undergoing a major expansion to accommodate increased traffic. While American’s lounge will be the first of its kind for the airline, AUS previously hosted a Chase Sapphire Terrace.
American Airlines Chief Customer Officer Heather Garboden stated that the new lounge will “reflect the vibrant spirit of Austin while offering thoughtful design and premium amenities.”
The expansion signals American’s renewed commitment to Austin, despite previous setbacks, and positions the airline to compete in a rapidly growing market. The new lounge is intended to deliver an improved experience for premium passengers, and marks a new standard for American’s lounge offerings.
