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The ongoing war for Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) between American Airlines and United Airlines has entered its next phase. American Airlines announced today that it plans to open a new, significantly larger Admirals Club® at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) in Terminal 3, Concourse L.
Spanning more than 10,000 square feet, the new lounge will eventually replace the existing Concourse L location (that I recently reviewed) to give travelers more room to unwind, work, and recharge during their journey through one of the nation’s busiest airports.
American’s upcoming lounge will incorporate local design elements that reflect the character of Chicago while also offering airside views through floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the runway. The space will feature the airline’s latest lounge design approach, which includes distinct zones that are referred to as neighborhoods (each tailored to different traveler needs). These areas are expected to provide a mix of relaxation space, work-focused seating, and refreshed food and beverage options.
American is continuing to strengthen its footprint in Chicago, but faces strong opposition from United (it recently announced that it is increasing frequency on 87 routes and will operate more than 750 daily flights this summer). Over the past year, American has also expanded its Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) operation by more than 180 destinations. During the upcoming spring break peak, American is scheduled to operate more than 500 daily departures from the airport.
American already offers Admirals Club® lounges in each concourse in Chicago, along with a premium Flagship® lounge (review here) located between Concourses H and K.
Beginning in December 2026, American will further expand its Chicago service with new nonstop flights to Maui’s Kahului Airport (OGG). The route will feature Flagship® Business lie-flat seats and Premium Economy.
Additional new service launching in May will include flights to:
- Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE)
- Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)
These additions support American’s goal of enhancing connectivity from Chicago while offering premium seating options across its network.
American is also making premium lounge access easier for customers traveling through chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and beyond. Domestic Admirals Club® entry is available through:
- Admirals Club® memberships
- Qualifying oneworld® elite status
- The Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard
Citi / AAdvantage Globe Mastercard cardholders can also use one of four annual Admirals Club® Globe passes, each valid for 24 hours. For travelers without membership or status, American offers a One Day Pass valid for 24 hours (available for $79 or 7,900 AAdvantage® miles).
Anthony’s Take: The upcoming Admirals Club® in Concourse L represents the latest phase in the battle for Chicago and a welcome upgrade for travelers at the airport.
(Featured Image Credit: American Airlines.)
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Advertiser & Editorial Disclosure: The Bulkhead Seat earns an affiliate commission for anyone approved through the links above This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. We work to provide the best publicly available offers to our readers. We frequently update them, but this site does not include all available offers. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities.
