American Airlines will build a new 15,000-square-foot lounge in Austin
American Airlines' commitment to Austin is getting even stronger.
The Fort Worth-based carrier unveiled plans on Tuesday to build a brand-new lounge in the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS).
At more than 15,000 square feet, the new Admirals Club, located near Gate 14, will have room for more than 250 passengers and will break ground next year. When it opens, it'll be the largest lounge in the airport.
American's existing Admirals Club in Austin, located across from Gate 22, will remain operational throughout the construction project. American says that an opening date and construction timeline will be announced at a later date.
The carrier shared just one mock-up of the new lounge, and while plans may change, the interior looks quite promising. There will be floor-to-ceiling windows, a variety of seating areas and locally inspired art installations.
The airline also teased that the new lounge will feature live music from local artists.
"Austin has such a unique energy, with its fascinating mix of technology and arts. American wants to create a club that reflects that eclectic style and pays homage to the lively music scene," said Clarissa Sebastian, American's managing director of premium customer experience and onboard products. "We can't wait for customers to experience the new space, with much more room to relax, unwind and enjoy."
American's new Admirals Club outpost in Austin marks the carrier's latest expansion in the Texas capital.
In the past year alone, the airline has added a whopping 25 routes to the city, two of which were just unveiled earlier this week. At this point, some industry observers might be wondering when the airline will designate Austin as a focus city.
From the expanded network to the investment in the ground experience, American is clearly making a play for the local Austin market.
Related: American expands in Austin once again, adds 2 new routes, more flights
The carrier has added a mix of both business- and leisure-focused routes in a long-term play for capitalizing on the growth the city has seen from major companies moving (or expanding) there. American wants to position itself as the carrier of choice for locals, regardless of whether you're traveling for work or for pleasure.
In fact, it isn't just American doubling down on Austin. The airport has had a blockbuster year — despite the pandemic — with growth from many major carriers.
Alaska, Allegiant Air, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue and Southwest have all unveiled new routes to the city this year. Additionally, Delta plans to reinstate just two of its five focus cities post-pandemic, with Austin and Raleigh-Durham returning.
Delta and United also have lounges in Austin, but American's new one is poised to become the nicest.
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