LAX - Airport Lounge

Question

Hello, I am looking for some help in finding an airport lounge I can pay to use. I am flying premium economy with Air France (in) and Virgin Atlantic (out) and I had thought I could pay for access with Star Alliance but when I tried to book it the system said I wasn't flying with an affiliated partner. We are travelling into and out of TBIT.

I have gone through all the lounges but they seem to all be for business and first class only with no option to pay to enter.

Help!!

Answer

At LAX, especially Terminal B (TBIT), finding a lounge you can pay to enter without flying business or first class can be tricky, but there are options for premium economy passengers or those willing to pay for single-use access.

Most airline-operated lounges in TBIT, such as Air France’s or Virgin Atlantic’s own lounges, are restricted to business/first-class passengers and elite frequent flyer members. Star Alliance lounges also require a qualifying ticket or membership, so your premium economy ticket alone won’t grant access.

Here are some alternatives for paying to enter an airport lounge at LAX:

Priority Pass Lounges
- Priority Pass offers pay-per-use options at some lounges, even if you are not a member, via their website or app.
- In TBIT, you may find lounges like the Wingtips Lounge or similar independent lounges where you can book a visit online.
- Check availability and pricing through the Priority Pass portal; sometimes there are restrictions on peak hours.
Independent Lounges / Lounge Access Programs
- Apps such as LoungeBuddy allow you to search for pay-per-use lounges in TBIT.
- For TBIT, options include the Star Alliance Lounge (via LoungeBuddy with single-entry pass) if available, or other independent lounges that partner with LoungeBuddy.
- Pricing typically ranges $40-$65 per person for 2-4 hours of access.
Airline-specific paid lounges (if eligible)
- Check Virgin Atlantic’s Clubhouse or Air France lounges; sometimes they allow pay-to-enter access even for non-business class tickets if booked in advance.
- It’s worth calling the lounge directly before your trip to see if any single-entry passes are available for your flight day.

Additional tips:

Booking ahead is crucial; some lounges sell out or restrict single-entry tickets.
If you have a premium credit card like American Express Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve, you may have complimentary or discounted lounge access options at participating lounges in TBIT.
Arrive early, as TBIT lounges can get crowded during peak international flight times.

In summary, while Star Alliance or airline lounges may be off-limits for premium economy, third-party lounges via LoungeBuddy or Priority Pass provide a feasible way to enjoy a comfortable space, snacks, and Wi-Fi at LAX before your flight.

LAX - Airport Lounge

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