A LoyaltyLobby reader sent us some images, and a note about the still closed American Express Centurion Lounge at the Los Angeles International Airport.
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Here’s the email from the reader:
A while back (see Sebastian’s post), AMEX suddenly closed their brand new LAX Lounge due to “construction”.
The lounge opened just as the pandemic began, and during the worst of Covid while the other lounges at LAX closed, they closed the seating areas but were providing a take-away snack for customers, also allowing them to use their restrooms too. Then, they suddenly closed with a vague reference to ‘Construction’.
Several months have passed and AMEX has provided no updates. Other lounges in terminal B have reopened. The same signage remains posted. The phone number for the lounge remains unanswered and mailbox full. Emails to AMEX reaffirm the closed status with no information on a reopening. This is strange behavior for American Express, especially in an important market like LAX.
Photo:
(Lights are on in the Centurion lounge and furniture is uncovered, while the level above is ready for a tenant and the Qantas First lounge further above remains closed.)
Conclusion
The reader also noted that a security guard at the door had told him that the construction, whatever had been ongoing, had finished several months ago.
This begs the question, why is the lounge still closed at one of the significant airports in the United States – LAX? It diminishes the value of the American Express Platinum card for those living in the greater LA area or who transit through the airport.
Sad!
That’s strange behavior indeed, especially because it’s not the regular Amex Servicelevel.
A reason for the lights and the presence of people might be simply the fact that water-tabs must be opened and toilets must be flushed daily because of bacteria etc. if the facility is out of order. Also Fire protection measures and other protocols remain active or partially active.
That’s really sad. Paying $700 for year and there are no lounge options at LAX unless flying Delta. There were previously two other Priority Pass lounges which are Alaska and KAL. But they don’t participate anymore which leaves no other options at LAX. Amex should be more open about when they will open this lounge. Very bad customer service on their side.
They threatened to take my points away when I pointed out I can’t use any lounges in LAX and wanted to downgrade to Green.
It’s a brave new day at AmEx. Shareholders want their share, and they’re gonna get it.
Oh, also if you eventually need to switch cards, you’ll be displeased to learn they no longer send self-addressed envelopes for disposal. Because they can’t afford postage required for that hefty card, they hope you’ll foot the bill for them.
The amusing thing is all the AmEx advertising on the digital signage in Bradley says it’s “reopening soon!” But those graphics have been around since August.
AMEX can’t find anyone in LA willing to work for 20 bucks an hour