American Airlines Announces First-Ever Lounge With Outdoor Space in Austin

Image: Rendering of American Airlines new lounge in Austin (Photo Credit: Courtesy American Airlines)
Image: Rendering of American Airlines new lounge in Austin (Photo Credit: Courtesy American Airlines)
Jessica Puckett
by Jessica Puckett
Last updated: 11:35 AM ET, Tue March 10, 2026

Travelers in one of Texas’ most popular cities are getting a luxe new space to relax—and get some fresh air—before a flight, thanks to American Airlines’ latest lounge expansion plan.

The carrier has just announced it will open a newly expanded Admirals Club at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) later this year.

The reimagined club will feature an outdoor terrace overlooking the airfield and the Austin city skyline beyond. Austin’s open-air terrace will be the first time American has ever offered outdoor space in one of its lounges.

Elsewhere in the revamped lounge, travelers will find distinct areas dedicated to different activities, such as dining, relaxing, working, and resting. Lounge-goers will also have access to premium products like Lavazza coffee and Champagne Bollinger. 

With the expansion, the new lounge will measure 12,000 square feet, double the size of the current Admirals Club at AUS. Construction is set to begin later in 2026, and the current lounge by Gate 22 will remain open to customers throughout the expansion project.

American operates almost 50 flights per day from Austin, primarily to its hubs in cities like Dallas-Fort Worth, Charlotte, Philadelphia, and more. However, the carrier also flies to Aspen, Colorado, and two cities in Mexico from AUS.

“As we elevate our presence in Austin, we’re excited to bring a new level of comfort and hospitality to our customers,” said American’s Chief Customer Officer Heather Garboden. “This new Admirals Club® lounge will reflect the vibrant spirit of Austin while offering the thoughtful design and premium amenities our customers expect.”

The revamped Austin club is part of a larger initiative at American to enhance its premium products in 2026. Expanding its lounge network is a key pillar of this strategy, and the carrier has already announced new or expanded lounges across its airport network, with construction projects underway in Miami, Charlotte, Washington D.C., and Chicago.

Access to American’s Admirals Clubs is complimentary for fliers with elite status with the Oneworld alliance or passengers who hold one of the airline’s co-branded credit cards. Other passengers can purchase a day pass to the lounges for $79.


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Jessica Puckett

Jessica Puckett

Jessica Puckett is an Emmy Award-winning journalist who covers transportation and travel news. She has reported for ABC News, The Points Guy, Condé Nast Traveler, and several other publications.

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