
Centurion Lounge
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), Concourse A, near Gate Gate A9
Hours of Operation
| Days | Open | Close |
|---|---|---|
| Daily | 5:00 AM | 9:00 PM |
Walking Directions
From the main atrium, take the underground walkway to Concourse A. After you surface, turn right and walk about 4 minutes. The Centurion Lounge entrance is on your left near Gate A9. Look for the dark metallic signage and the reception desk at the top of the stairs.
Access Methods
| Method | Type | Details |
|---|---|---|
| American Express Platinum Card | Membership | Complimentary access for Platinum cardholders |
| American Express Centurion Card | Membership | Complimentary access with up to two guests |
| Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card | Membership | Access when flying Delta on a same-day ticket |
Amenities
Food and Drinks
Food
Full chef-curated menu with locally inspired dishes, seasonal rotations
Drinks
Craft cocktails by a dedicated mixologist, local NC craft beers, curated wine list
Signature Items
- Carolina BBQ brisket plate
- NoDa Brewing Hop Drop on draft
- Seasonal craft cocktail with Cheerwine reduction
Guest Policy
Guests allowed: 2
Cost per guest: $50 per guest
Centurion cardholders get two free guests. Platinum cardholders pay $50 per guest or can use guest passes.
Crowding Information
Peak Hours
6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Best Times to Visit
Late morning between 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM
Workspace
Power Outlets
Integrated power at every seat including USB-C fast charging
Desk Areas
Yes
Quiet Zones
Yes
A dedicated quiet work area at the far end has individual desks with privacy screens and soft lighting. Perfect for Charlotte's finance crowd preparing for meetings.
Showers
Showers are available. Booking is required in advance.
Multiple shower suites with Byredo products. Sign up at reception immediately on arrival as waitlists build quickly.
The Good
- Exceptional food quality rivaling a proper sit-down restaurant, with locally sourced NC ingredients
- Craft cocktail program features creative drinks you will not find anywhere else in the airport
- Spacious, beautifully designed interior with a sophisticated lounge atmosphere
- Shower suites stocked with premium Byredo amenities
The Bad
- Gets extremely crowded during morning and afternoon banks, with waitlists common
- Only accessible to Amex Platinum and Centurion cardholders, no Priority Pass or walk-ins
- Located in Concourse A which requires a walk from the American Airlines concourses
Pro Tips
- Get here by 10:30 AM to avoid the waitlist. Morning connecting banks fill the lounge, but it clears out once the rush passes and the lunch crowd has not arrived yet.
- The Carolina BBQ plate is the standout menu item. It rotates seasonally but the brisket and pulled pork versions are both outstanding, sourced from local NC pitmasters.
- Ask the mixologist for the off-menu cocktail. They typically have a seasonal creation featuring local ingredients like Cheerwine or NC honey that is not on the printed menu.
- If you need to shower, sign up the second you check in. Waitlists can hit 45 minutes by mid-morning. The Byredo products alone make it worth the wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I access the Centurion Lounge with Priority Pass?
No. The Centurion Lounge is exclusively for American Express Platinum and Centurion cardholders. Priority Pass, LoungeKey, and other third-party programs are not accepted.
How bad are the waitlists at the CLT Centurion Lounge?
During peak morning and afternoon banks, waitlists of 20 to 40 minutes are common. The lounge is popular with Charlotte's large business traveler population. Visit between 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM for the best chance of walking right in.
Is the food really that good?
Yes. Centurion Lounges are known for their restaurant-quality food, and the CLT location leans into North Carolina flavors with BBQ, local craft ingredients, and seasonal dishes. It is a significant step above any other lounge food at CLT.
Other Lounges at Charlotte Douglas International Airport

Admirals Club
Concourse B
Daily: 4:30AM - 10PM

Admirals Club
Concourse C
Daily: 4:30AM - 10PM

Delta Sky Club
Concourse A
Daily: 5:15AM - 9:30PM

The Club CLT
Concourse E
Daily: 5AM - 10PM

United Club
Concourse E
Daily: 5AM - 9PM

