American Express has officially entered the airport lounge market in mainland China. On March 26, Amex announced that its first mainland airport lounge, located at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA), will officially open in late April.
The lounge is located on the 21M level of Terminal 2 at Hongqiao Airport (in the pre-security area) and measures approximately 1,572 square feet. Its design incorporates local Shanghai architectural elements and includes a runway-view terrace where guests can watch aircraft take off and land. On the food and beverage side, it will offer specialty dining options that highlight local culture. Inside, the lounge features multiple functional areas, including individual seating, small group spaces, and an elegant dining area.
Anna Marrs, President of Global Merchant and Network Services at American Express, said the space is intended to serve local, regional, and international business and leisure travelers, offering premium amenities and a place to relax before boarding.
Card Members with several premium American Express credit cards will receive complimentary access to the lounge and may bring one or two accompanying guests, depending on the card type. Eligible cards include:
The Platinum Card®
The Business Platinum Card®
The Centurion Card (including personal and business versions)
As a new addition to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, this lounge is not a signature Centurion Lounge, but it still marks an important step in Amex’s mainland China strategy. Whether this move will lead to further expansion in the region is worth watching.
