American Airlines is making some temporary changes to its Admirals Club access due to the pandemic and the reduction of many long-haul international flights.

As a result, American Airlines will be temporarily allowing expanding Admirals Club access to all international flights in first or business class, as well as to Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro and Platinum on international flights.

These changes go into effect on April 1, 2021, however there is no end date at this time, but I’d say it’s safe to say these should be here through at least the end of the year.

Per American Airlines,

Qualifying AAdvantage® Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro and Platinum lounge update:

For a limited time: Starting April 1, 2021, qualifying international flights will include flights between the U.S. and Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico. Includes customers on qualifying departing international flights marketed and operated by American or a oneworld® airline (regardless of cabin).

Qualifying First and Business

For a limited time: Starting April 1, 2021, qualifying international flights will include flights between the U.S. and Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico. Includes customers in First or Business on a qualifying departing international or transcontinental flight marketed and operated by American or a oneworld® airline.*

However, American Airlines is removing FlagShip Lounge access for some:

Starting April 1, 2021, the following customers will no longer receive Flagship Lounge access when traveling to Mexico City and Central America, but rather will be directed to the Admirals Club.

It’s nice to see American Airlines expanding Admirals Club access for more travelers on international flights, but just keep in mind these are only temporary changes due to the pandemic, and I imagine we’ll see these reverted back sometime next year.

What do you make of the adjustments to the American Airlines lounge access policy for international flights? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.