American Express to open larger Centurion Lounge at Heathrow Terminal 5
American Express is building a new, larger Centurion Lounge in Heathrow's Terminal 5, converting former landside offices near Gates A2-A4 for a 2028 opening.
American Express is opening a new Centurion Lounge in Heathrow Terminal 5 by 2028. Construction on the facility, which will be 30% larger than the existing Centurion Lounge in Terminal 3, is already underway but not yet visible to passengers.
The lounge will occupy space converted from former landside offices that back onto the airside area. Its likely location is near Gates A2-A4, potentially replacing the current soft play zone in that vicinity.
Design and passenger experience
The lounge will feature a London-inspired design drawing from the city's cultures and the River Thames, using layered materials and fluid forms. Signature amenities will include refined food and beverage offerings, comfortable seating, dedicated work areas, and a VIP section.
Access rules and capacity
Access is strictly limited to American Express Platinum and Centurion cardholders and their guests. No reservations are allowed. The expected capacity is 140 to 150 guests, exceeding the 110-guest limit at the Terminal 3 location.
Primary cardholders may bring one guest. Supplementary Platinum and Centurion cards can each bring their own guest, allowing a family of four to enter if adults hold primary and supplementary cards. All guests must be on the same flight as the cardholder, and entry is permitted only from three hours before departure. Additional guests can be brought in for a fee, with the Terminal 3 fee structure presumed to be similar for Terminal 5.
| Guest Type | Fee (Terminal 3) |
|---|---|
| Adult | £35 |
| Child (2-17) | £24 |
Slots cannot be reserved ahead of time, although one or two tables are typically held for Centurion cardholders.
Strategic timing and context
The 2028 opening is strategically timed. It will coincide with the first wave of British Airways lounge closures in Terminal 5A as that carrier begins a major refurbishment project. The new Centurion Lounge will provide useful additional premium capacity for travelers during the reconstruction period, temporarily easing space shortages.
Statements from leadership
Hannah Lewis, UK Country Manager for American Express, linked the expansion to cardmember demand. "Today’s announcement builds on American Express’ continued investment in expanding and evolving The Centurion Lounge Network to meet the changing needs of Cardmembers," she said.
Heathrow's Director of Airport Journeys, Daniel Edwards, also welcomed the development. "We’re delighted that American Express has chosen to expand its presence at Heathrow with a second Centurion Lounge, this time in Terminal 5," Edwards stated. The lounge will open in 2028 as British Airways begins refurbishing Terminal 5A, providing additional premium capacity during the reconstruction period.
