3 Alaska Airlines Lounges Leaving Priority Pass

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With more than 1,200 eligible locations in 629 airports in more than 140 countries, it's no question that the Priority Pass program has expanded significantly over the years. Heck, members can even visit mini-suites and dine for free at many restaurants now. However, from time to time, we also see lounges leaving the network. Enrollment required for select benefits.

Well, Priority Pass has announced that it will be ceasing its lounge partnership across all three Alaska Airlines lounges at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) effective September 1. Presently, members have access to the Alaska lounges in Concourse C, Concourse D and the North Satellite. Enrollment required for select benefits.

Priority Pass says that the change was "following a mutual review," but it's clear that it's likely due to overcrowding. With more and more premium travel cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express, the Chase Sapphire Reserve, the Ritz-Carlton Rewards Card, Citi Prestige offering Priority Pass membership as a benefit, it's becoming increasingly common for cardholders to be turned away from some lounges due to space issues. To combat the problem, Alaska Airlines began limiting Priority Pass guest access, but it seems like that change didn't solve the problem. Enrollment required for select benefits.

Although the Seattle locations aren't the only Alaska lounges to have overcrowding issues, no changes are being made to the access rules of the carrier's other lounges, such as the brand new one at JFK and the one at LAX — at least not yet.

Priority Pass members will continue to have access to two additional lounges at SEA: “The Club at SEA” located within both Concourse A and the South Satellite. As a reminder, Amex Platinum cardholders also have access to the Centurion Studio in Concourse B and Delta SkyClubs when flying with the carrier. All concourses are accessible by an air train so it’s especially easy to make airside connections. Enrollment required for select benefits.

If you want to continue visiting the Alaska lounges, you'll need to carry a paid first class ticket (elite upgrades don't count), purchase a lounge day pass for $45 or be an Alaska lounge member. Alaska MVP Gold 75K elites can also access the lounges using their free passes.

Alaska Airlines and Priority Pass have not immediately responded to TPG’s request for additional comment. Enrollment required for select benefits.