A Fancy New Experience Is In Store For Some Flyers At PHL: What To Know

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia International Airport's top airline has made some swanky changes for travelers.

American Airlines Thursday opened a 25,000-square-foot area in the A-West Terminal that features two signature lounges. This comes as the airline adds new destinations for the summer travel season.

These new lounges — which are replacing the Admirals Club lounge in the A-East Terminal — are decorated with natural materials and illuminated with zoned lighting, according to the company. Ambient music also sets the tone to de-stress during travel.

Amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi, power outlets, a fireplace, and clearly displayed flight information screens to "support productivity and peace of mind for business travelers," the airline said. There are also panoramic runway views, six spa-style showers and a variety of seating options, the airline boasted.

Who can go to the lounges?

The Flagship and Admirals Club lounges are now open to certain travelers. Eligible AAdvantage members, qualifying "oneworld" members and customers traveling in premium cabins on qualifying same-day flights can access the lounges.

The Flagship lounge is available for business-class travelers on qualifying international, transcontinental, or select domestic flights.

But wait: is there food?

The lounges feature specially created dishes by local chef and James Beard Award Semifinalist Chef Randy Rucker of River Twice and Little Water, as well as a "unique-to-Philadelphia" à la carte menu available via QR code.

Visitors to the Flagship lounge will also be treated to complimentary glasses of champagne.

The Admirals Club lounge offer curated self-serve offerings, specialty Don Francisco coffee and a full-service bar. Families can take little ones to the dedicated kids area in this lounge, as well.

"Both lounges are organized into thoughtfully designed areas that create a versatile experience for every kind of traveler," American Airlines said in announcing the lounges. "Whether looking to sip, savor, socialize or retreat to a quiet corner, there is the perfect space for all."

Terminal A-West is located between gates A15 and A16.

PHL's top airline adding new routes

American Airlines is the top airline flying out of Philadelphia Airport. In 2024, nearly 20 million passengers flew out of Philadelphia on the airline. In comparison, the second most popular airline out of Philadelphia was Frontier, with just 3.6 million flyers.

In 2024, the airline announced seven new routes out of Philadelphia, including to Nice Côte d'Azur Airport in France and Naples, Italy.

Even more new routes are planned this summer, including to Edinburgh, Scotland and Milan, Italy. Learn more about those routes here.