If you’re looking for a quick bite between flights, American Airlines has a new solution for you.
The airline just opened its first-ever grab-and-go lounge, dubbed Provisions by Admirals Club, at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). The space, which measures roughly 2,000 square feet, is designed exclusively for travelers to pop by on the way to their flight — whether they’re hoping to get a snack or a cup of coffee.
There are no tables or seating options for travelers. I’m not even sure if you’ll find a power outlet for some last-minute juice.
Provisions occupies a previously unused space next to Gate A1 at CLT.
The only true amenity in the outpost is personalized flight assistance, provided by two representatives on staff who can help with irregular operations or day-of-travel questions.
In terms of food, American says it’ll serve breakfast from 6:15 a.m. until 11 a.m. and all-day options from 11 a.m. to 10:45 p.m.
Provisions will be stocked with packaged snacks, pastries, yogurt and fruit options during the morning hours, followed by salty and sweet treats during the afternoon and evening. Meal boxes will also be available throughout the day.
If you’re looking for caffeine, you might want to go elsewhere. Drip coffee and tea will be available, but don’t expect any baristas or coffee machines here.
Canned and bottled nonalcoholic drinks will be available as well.
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In terms of access, Provisions inherits the same access rules as any other Admirals Club, so be sure to check out our detailed guide to see if you qualify.
Grab-and-go lounges have become all the rage these days, with airlines like Air Canada and United already investing in these spaces. Credit card issuers are also getting in the game, with packaged takeaway options at every Capital One Lounge and Amex opening a speedier Centurion Lounge experience at upcoming Sidecar outposts.
This Provisions location at American’s Charlotte hub represents its first foray into the grab-and-go concept.
While I haven’t been to American’s new outpost yet, the pictures show that the space looks far less inviting and premium than the competition. I’ll reserve judgment until my full review when I visit the space, but American does deserve preemptive kudos for one thing: its alacrity. The airline announced Provisions on July 15 and opened it on Aug. 19, just over a month later.
Now, one could argue that the airline didn’t need to do much work to repurpose some space near a gate holdroom. But, more options are better than fewer — especially in Charlotte, the carrier’s second-busiest hub that handles tons of connecting traffic.
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