Chase Cut Lounge Access. Citi Got Better.

Chase is tightening access to Sapphire Lounges, and Citi just gave its premium American Airlines card a major overhaul.

Starting August 15, 2026, Priority Pass and LoungeKey members without an eligible Chase card will lose access to Chase Sapphire Lounges by The Club, including the option to pay per visit. Could this finally reduce lounge crowding?

I also break down the refreshed Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®: its higher $695 annual fee, new American Airlines Vacations credit, Lyft and Admirals Club credits, hotel and rental-car status, removed benefits, and whether the new math makes sense.

Timeline
0:00 Start Here
0:34 Chase Sapphire Lounges
6:16 Citi/AAdvantage Exec Refresh