American Airlines and Citi Extend Partnership Across Admirals Club Network

Citi Branding to Roll Out Across Key U.S. Airport Lounges from April

American Airlines is expanding its long-standing collaboration with Citi, extending the partnership across its Admirals Club lounge network in the United States from April.

The move builds on a relationship spanning nearly four decades and reflects a broader effort to integrate customer benefits across both travel and financial services. Citi remains the exclusive issuer of the AAdvantage co-branded credit card portfolio in the U.S.

From next month, travellers passing through major hubs including Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport and Miami International Airport will begin to see Citi branding introduced at Admirals Club lounge entrances. Additional locations are expected to follow through 2026.

Scott Long, Senior Vice President of AAdvantage at American Airlines, said the partnership reflects both companies’ efforts to align benefits across the customer journey. He noted that co-branded cardholders already receive a range of benefits, including the ability to earn Loyalty Points and progress through status tiers.

Lounge Access and Membership Options

Access to Admirals Club lounges remains available through multiple pathways. These include paid memberships, eligible oneworld alliance status and specific Citi / AAdvantage credit cards.

Cardholders of the Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard receive lounge access as part of their benefits. Meanwhile, customers holding Citi / AAdvantage Globe Mastercard and Citi Strata Elite cards can access lounges by redeeming annual passes, each valid for 24 hours.

Travellers without memberships or eligible cards can purchase a one-day pass, valid for 24 hours, using either cash or AAdvantage miles.

Enhancements Across the Lounge Experience

Admirals Club lounges offer facilities designed for both relaxation and productivity, including shower suites, bar service and designated workspaces.

The Citi expansion follows a series of recent updates to American Airlines’ lounge offering. These include partnerships with beverage and hospitality brands, refreshed menus influenced by regional cuisine, and the ongoing expansion of lounge spaces at key airports such as Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Charlotte Douglas International Airport, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

AAdvantage Programme Integration

The AAdvantage loyalty programme continues to play a central role in the partnership. Members can earn miles through flights, co-branded credit card usage and partner services. These miles can be redeemed for travel, while Loyalty Points contribute towards status qualification.

With nearly 50 Admirals Club locations worldwide, the programme is positioned as a key component of American Airlines’ customer offering, linking everyday spending with travel-related benefits.