Modern Redesign Coming For Admirals Club Lounges

American Airlines begins most extensive refresh in history in Phoenix and Sao Paulo

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Apr 27, 2015, 09:00 ET

FORT WORTH, Texas, April 27, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- American Airlines is beginning the most expansive lounge makeover in the airline's history. The Admirals Club lounges at Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) and Sao Paulo International (GRU) airports, both closed for construction, will lead the way for the modern makeover.

Rendering shows the future look of the Admirals Club in PHX Terminal A.

Rendering shows the new look for future Admirals Club lounge bars by James Park Associates Ltd.

"In the future, when our customers see an Admirals Club sign anywhere in the world, they'll know they'll find a reliable, modern space where they can charge their devices, grab a bite to eat, get caught up on work or unplug from the world around them," says Fernand Fernandez, American's vice president - Global Marketing. "Our goal is to create spaces that are more in line with how people live and spend their time today."

Over the next several years, lounges will receive a stylish, consistent look designed for today's connected travelers.

Renovated clubs will be instantly recognizable to customers, with entryways featuring the American Airlines logo on sleek, white glass. Once inside, customers will be greeted by representatives who are stationed at modern check-in podiums, ready to assist with travel and upgrade needs. Lounge areas will receive a contemporary style overhaul with a mix of tan and gray tones and accents of rich red, along with lighting and other elements that blend in white oak wood and stainless steel.

To improve customers' comfort as well as productivity, the redesigned clubs will feature a variety of custom-made furniture pieces - from communal tables to high-backed chairs outfitted with power outlets and USB ports, making it easier to charge personal devices and stay connected. Restrooms will also be given a modern treatment, with new countertops and tile throughout. A club's individual location will be played up through artwork that represents the destination.

The renovation process will expand some clubs, such as the PHX Terminal A club, giving customers more space to relax and new seating options.

American will start construction on clubs in Miami, New York (JFK), Dallas/Fort Worth and Los Angeles this year, with clubs in Chicago, London and other key cities entering the renovation phase in the coming years. Ultimately, the makeover will touch all of American's lounges.

American is also upgrading its food and refreshments. Earlier this year, Admirals Club lounges rolled out an enhanced and healthy selection of complimentary offerings such as Greek yogurt, oatmeal, hearty soups and sweet and savory snacks. More food enhancements are coming this summer.

In December 2014, American announced an investment of more than $2 billion in the customer experience. These investments include more fully lie-flat seats; upgraded aircraft interiors; more international Wi-Fi; more in-flight entertainment options and charging power for customers in all cabins; and an improved airport experience with faster, more reliable kiosks and refreshed gate and ticketing areas. This is all in addition to American's historic fleet renewal, during which it expects to take delivery of 75 new mainline aircraft in 2015.

For more information about American's investment in the travel experience, please visit aa.com/goingforgreat.

About American Airlines

American Airlines Group (NASDAQ: AAL) is the holding company for American Airlines and US Airways. Together with regional partners, operating as American Eagle and US Airways Express, the airlines operate an average of nearly 6,700 flights per day to nearly 350 destinations in more than 50 countries. American is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members and members-elect serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to 150 countries. This year American topped Fortune Magazine's list of best business turnarounds and its stock joined the S&P 500 index. Connect with American on Twitter @AmericanAir and at Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines.

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SOURCE American Airlines