Amex Platinum to LOSE More Benefits This Year
Why It Matters
Losing Lufthanza lounge access reduces the Platinum card’s travel‑luxury value, while the modest economy‑fare discounts provide only limited cost offsets, forcing members to weigh alternatives or upgrade cards.
Key Takeaways
- •Amex Platinum loses access to all Lufthanza lounges Oct 1, 2026.
- •Platinum Member Airfares now include economy tickets with modest savings.
- •Savings vary; domestic economy flights can save $15, international minimal.
- •Alternative lounge entry via Priority Pass or paid access after loss.
- •Silo Markets offers 1x points for 2024, then drops to 0.5x.
Summary
The video outlines two major changes for American Express Platinum holders: the removal of Lufthanza lounge access effective October 1, 2026, and the expansion of the Platinum Member Airfares program to include economy‑class tickets. While the lounge loss eliminates complimentary entry to both standard and Senator Lufthanza lounges, the airfare update promises modest discounts and five points per dollar when booking through Amex’s portal. Key data points reveal that domestic economy flights can save roughly $15, whereas international economy savings are often negligible—sometimes as low as $5 on a New York‑London route. Business‑class fares still see larger discounts, exemplified by a $34 reduction on a Delta flight to London. The program covers about 30 airlines, but savings are limited to select flights on each route, requiring careful verification. Ben Hedges highlights practical examples: a $34 business‑class discount, a $5 international economy saving, and a $49‑$65 paid entry fee for Lufthanza lounges after the benefit ends. He also promotes Silo Markets, noting a temporary 1x point‑per‑dollar rate before it drops to 0.5x, with a 150,000‑point sign‑up bonus for early adopters. For cardholders, the lounge removal diminishes the Platinum’s premium travel appeal, prompting a reassessment of its overall value versus competing cards. Meanwhile, the expanded airfare program offers a modest cost‑saving tool, but travelers must scrutinize each booking to ensure genuine discounts.
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