Charlotte Airport Approves Amex To Open Sidecar by Centurion Lounge

American Express just opened its first Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge in Las Vegas and is already planning its next location.

The Charlotte City Council just approved a lease at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), which could bring the smaller, speakeasy-style lounge to travelers on the East Coast.

American Express already has a Centurion Lounge at this airport, so this new addition will complement that location and help with overflow.

Let’s take a look at the details.

Speakeasy Lounge Approved at CLT

Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge just debuted its first location in Las Vegas at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), and we already have clues about where its next location might be.

On March 9, 2026, the Charlotte City Council approved a lease between American Express and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) that would bring a 4,641-square-foot Sidecar lounge to Concourse A.

This would be much larger than the Las Vegas location, which is roughly 1,500 square feet and has a capacity of just 33 guests at a time.

American Express already has a Centurion Lounge located between Concourses D and E, so this Sidecar will be a nice option for travelers in Concourse A. This is in addition to the many lounges the airport has been adding lately, including a Provisions by Admirals Club, and an upcoming American Airlines Flagship Lounge, and Capital One Lounge.

What Is Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge?

Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge is the latest lounge concept from American Express, focused on a smaller, more intimate, speakeasy-style atmosphere.

Designed as a “premium stop for shorter stays,” Sidecar lounges feature premium cocktails, small plates, and an express ordering system for travelers with short connections.

This is not a lounge to plan a long layover at. In fact, the Las Vegas location limits eligible cardmembers to visits within 90 minutes of their departing flight.

Final Thoughts

American Express is already planning to expand its new speakeasy-style lounge, Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge, with an upcoming location at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

While there is no official announcement by Amex, the Charlotte City Council has approved a lease that would allow the construction of a 4,600+-square-foot Sidecar lounge in Concourse A. This would be a nice addition to the very popular Centurion Lounge located between Concourses D and E.

When we know more about an opening timeline, we’ll be sure to provide updates.