Capital One to Curb Lounge Access for Some Cardholders
Capital One is tightening access to its exclusive airport lounges, eliminating the perk that allowed all premium credit cardholders to extend free entry to additional cardholders and guests. This move follows a trend among major banks such as Chase and American Express, who have made similar changes to their lounge access policies.
The New Changes to Lounge Access
Starting early next year, Capital One’s Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders will no longer be able to bring additional cardholders or guests into the lounges without paying. Previously, these perks were used to offset the card’s nearly $400 annual fee.
In an email to customers on Tuesday, the bank explained that the decision was driven by the growing popularity of its airport lounges, which feature amenities such as chef-curated menus, specialty cocktails, and relaxing environments. These amenities have led to longer wait times to enter, prompting the bank to make these changes.
New Costs for Lounge Access
- Additional Cardholders: Access will now cost $125 annually per additional cardholder on a Venture X or Venture X Business account.
- Guests: Lounge access fees for guests will be tied to how much cardholders spend annually:
- Cardholders who spend over $75,000 annually will be able to bring two guests for free to the lounges and one guest to the bank’s Landings locations (lounge-restaurant hybrid).
- Cardholders who spend less than this threshold will pay:
- $45 per adult guest
- $25 for guests aged 17 and under
- Children under 2 will still be allowed free entry.
Bank’s Statement on the Changes
Capital One defended the changes, stating: “We thought carefully about these changes, and we remain committed to delivering a differentiated premium travel card for our customers,” according to a bank spokesperson.
This policy shift mirrors moves made by other leading banks in the industry, reflecting a broader trend of revising premium credit card perks as demand for these services increases.