Amex Centurion Lounge set for Newark’s Terminal A (updated)

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The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey and American Express announced plans Sept. 12 for the first Centurion Lounge at Newark Liberty International Airport, which will be housed at the facility’s new Terminal A.

The 18,000-square-foot lounge is scheduled to open in 2026.

Some features of the new Centurion Lounge include: an indoor terrace overlooking the airfield with views of the Manhattan skyline; a cocktail bar and piano lounge celebrating New Jersey’s rich jazz history; signature Centurion Lounge amenities, such as a menu inspired by local cuisine, ample seating areas, dedicated workstations, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi; premium restrooms and shower suites; a space designed for families with small children; and a quiet reprieve featuring artifacts and antiques that celebrate the Garden State’s rich culture and history of innovation.

The announcement marks the latest momentum for Newark Airport’s redevelopment and for Terminal A, which is now fully operational as NJBIZ reported last month.

“The new Terminal A is the first step in a renaissance for Newark Liberty International Airport,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole. “The addition of the Centurion Lounge, with its stunning architecture, incredible amenities and a celebration of New Jersey’s rich history throughout will be a fitting capstone to an already world-class facility.”

Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton says that the agency is committed to elevating the travel experience for the nearly 14 million passengers expected to travel through Terminal A this year.

“When this new lounge opens, it will become part of the world class amenities available to travelers in the stunning new Terminal A at Newark Liberty Airport,” said Cotton.

American Express is the first credit card issuer to announce plans to open a proprietary lounge at Newark Airport.

“The Centurion Lounge at Newark Liberty International Airport is a strong addition to our global network giving eligible card members a taste of New Jersey’s local culture,” said Audrey Hendley, president, American Express Travel. “From the design to the food and beverage menu, our new lounge is inspired by New Jersey’s history and features upscale amenities that our card members love.”

According to the American Express web site, access is only available to Platinum Card Members, Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card Members, Centurion Members and eligible guests.

Terminal A’s first airport lounge – the new United Club – opened in July, it is the first of four slated for the space, including the Centurion Lounge as well as the American Airlines Admirals Club and the Delta Air Lines Sky Club, which are scheduled to open later this year.

“As terminal operators, we recognize we have a unique opportunity to open not one, but four world-class airport lounges in a state-of-the-art airport terminal,” said Michael Kunz, CEO of Munich Airport LLC, the terminal operator of Terminal A, in July. “These airline clubs and lounges are the secret missing ingredient that will take the new Terminal A from great to amazing, while surprising and delighting passengers with a world-class travel experience in New Jersey.”

Editor’s note: This story was updated at 6:10 p.m. EDT on Sept. 12, 2023 to include information on the eligibility requirements for admission to the new lounge.