American Express expanding, updating Centurion Lounge at IAH

Oct 8, 2026

NEW YORK — American Express today announced plans to expand and reimagine its existing lounge at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). The lounge will nearly triple its current footprint — from approximately 8,000 square feet to more than 23,000 square feet — making it one of the largest Centurion Lounge locations in the network. With a design influenced by the surrounding landscape and coastal influence, the reimagined space will celebrate Houston's vibrant culture, culinary scene, and enduring connection to space exploration.

American Express plans to open an expanded Centurion® Lounge at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. This rendering of the Main Bar features digitally-generated human figures.

In addition to a new Blue Roast by American Express Coffee and Wellness Bar, Card Members can look forward to new offerings, including:

• A specialty dining area, featuring rotating plated dishes inspired by Houston's diverse culinary traditions and Gulf Coast flavors. Guests can also continue to enjoy the signature buffet featuring dishes by the Culinary Collective by The Centurion Lounge.

• A second full-service bar, giving Card Members another place to enjoy the lounge's signature beverage program, including craft cocktails made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and recipes inspired by Houston, alongside a curated wine selection by Sommelier Helen Johannesen of the Culinary Collective by The Centurion Lounge.

• The lounge will also offer refreshed restrooms, premium shower suites and a variety of seating areas designed for every type of traveler.

"Houston is a global gateway, and we're committed to delivering a world-class airport experience that reflects the energy and diversity of our city," said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for the Houston Airport System. The expansion of The Centurion Lounge at IAH Terminal D is an important investment in the traveler experience, and we're proud to continue our partnership with American Express to welcome eligible Card Members into this new and modern space."

The lounge is expected to be fully updated by 2028.

The details about the renovation at IAH are part of a larger announcement by American Express. The credit card issuer is investing in its largest Centurion Lounge Network expansion to date, spanning four locations and further strengthening its presence in two of the world’s leading travel hubs, New York and London. The new Centurion Lounge at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), which will become the largest in the network, will make American Express the first credit card issuer with proprietary lounges across all three major New York City-area airports. In addition, with the opening of a second Centurion Lounge at London Heathrow Airport (LHR), American Express will become the first credit card issuer with two proprietary lounges at that airport. Read the full release here.