If you have traveled through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) you know that describing the airport as busy is an understatement. The airport holds the title of the worlds busiest airport (OAG). This is mainly contributed by Delta Air Lines massive hub operation. Being a hub, there are nine Delta Sky Clubs throughout the airport which are subject to frequent overcrowding. That is where American Express comes to the rescue (theoretically). On February 14, 2024 American Express debuted their largest Centurion lounge to date, the Centurion Lounge at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Shortly after opening, the lounge was visited to see what AMEX’s newest lounge has to offer.
Who Can Access The Lounge?
The Centurion Lounge is located post security in Concourse E by gate E11 and is open from 6am to 11pm. Concourse E is connected to the Plane Train which connects all of the airside and ticketing areas via Automated People Movers. Once exiting the Plane Train at Concourse E, there are signs throughout the concourse providing directions to the lounge. Access into the Centurion lounge is limited to the following credit card holders.:
- Platinum Card®
- Business Platinum Card®
- Corporate Platinum Card®
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card (must be flying on a same day Delta operated flight).
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card (must be flying on a same day Delta operated flight).
- Centurion® Members
More information can be found by visiting American Express.
First Impressions
After passing through the glass doors, you are immediately greeted by American Express signature living wall and check in desk. Despite a large volume of people in line, the wait was only a few minutes. After leaving the check in area, it becomes immediately clear this is not your typical run of the mill Centurion Lounge. You can tell that a lot of thought has been put into the interior design. Just to the left of the check in area is the first of two outdoor terraces. Going towards the center of the lounge, a massive olive tree stands in the center of the open space. Being late afternoon, the lounge had limited open seating, with many of the different spaces being occupied. While this isn’t just a Centurion Lounge issue, it makes the space feel crowded and hectic.
Outdoor Seating Options
Probably one of the best aspects of the lounge has to be the two separate outdoor seating areas. The first outdoor area is located adjacent to the lounge entrance. Walking to the seating area takes you past a plethora of greenery by the walkway. It’s worth noting that this area does not offer any views of the ramp. The second outdoor area, however is larger in size and offers great views of the ramp area. There’s a decent amount of lounge chairs and tables in this space. It is semi covered which makes the space habitable during rainy weather.
Indoor Seating Options
American Express took inspiration from Atlanta’s “city in the forest” which is why the main indoor seating area features the signature 50 year old olive tree and custom lighting sculpture. In the center of the lounge are a variety of seating options including a handful of couches, chairs and tables surrounding the olive tree. Towards the rear of the lounge are some more seating areas including high top tables that overlook the ramp. Solo travelers will appreciate the single seat booths located in the rear of the lounge. There are also four enclosed phone rooms with to chairs inside. Unlike other lounges where power outlets are a scarcity, the Centurion Lounge Atlanta has power outlets in majority of the tables and seats.
Buffet And Bar Areas
Food and Beverage offerings in the lounge were curated by Chef Deborah VanTrece, owner of local Atlanta restaurants Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours, Oreatha’s At The Point. During this particular visit, the buffet area featured grilled chicken thighs and an assorted salad station. Honestly this was the biggest let down of the lounge visit. With the exception of the salad, the food had a bland taste to it. Even compared to other Centurion Lounges, the food left much to be desired. There is a full bar area and a specialty bar called The Reserve by American Express. It is a dedicated whiskey bar offering five five specialty whiskey cocktails. Also throughout the lounge are water stations, coffee stations and light grab and go items including fruit.
Final Boarding Call
There is no question that America Express has upped the ante in the new Centurion Lounge Atlanta. Overall, the design of the lounge is one of its kind. The natural vegetation throughout the lounge brings a very earthy and natural atmosphere throughout. Personally the different spaces like the outdoor terraces and soler traveler seating break up the lounge space nicely. The only area really where the lounge falls short has to be the food. The lackluster food takes away from the premium feel of the lounge and falls short of other Centurion Lounges visited. Despite the shortcomings with the food and crowed spaces, the American Express Centurion Lounge Atlanta gives other airport lounges a big run for their money!