Accessing airport lounges is becoming more difficult and expensive — even for premium credit card holders
Capital One announced that starting February 1, 2026, its Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders will no longer be able to automatically bring guests into its airport lounges unless they meet a high annual spending threshold or pay a per-visit fee. The change mirrors similar moves by American Express and Chase in recent years to address growing overcrowding.
Under the new policy, Venture X cardholders will need to spend at least $75,000 per calendar year to bring up to two free guests into Capital One lounges. Without meeting the spending requirement, guests will be charged $45 per adult and $25 per child under 18 per visit. Additional authorized users will cost $125 annually, which includes access to Priority Pass lounges.
The company said the changes are meant to improve the lounge experience amid growing usage. “It is important to us that we maintain a great airport lounge experience,” Capital One stated.
Capital One lounges have opened in major airports including Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, Dulles, and Las Vegas, with new ones coming soon to JFK and LaGuardia in New York.
The move comes as credit card companies and airlines work to reduce congestion in lounges. American Express implemented a similar $75,000 spending rule in 2023. Delta, meanwhile, has capped annual lounge visits and is expanding dedicated Delta One lounges for premium international travelers.
With annual fees ranging from $395 for Venture X to $695 for Amex Platinum, lounge access remains a key benefit for frequent travelers — but one that’s becoming more exclusive.
Experts say lounge providers are facing growing pains from their own success. “These lounges have become victims of their own popularity,” said travel analyst Henry Harteveldt. “No lounge operator wants them to feel like the main terminal.”
As travel demand grows and loyalty card perks expand, travelers may have to pay more or spend more to enjoy once-routine lounge access.
