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What is Priority Pass?

Understanding the world's largest independent airport lounge network.

Priority Pass is an independent airport lounge access program that provides entry to over 1,500 airport lounges, restaurants, and experiences in more than 600 cities worldwide. It is not tied to any single airline and operates independently of airline alliances.

1. What is Priority Pass?

Priority Pass was founded in 1992 and is owned by Collinson Group. It is the largest independent airport lounge access program in the world. Unlike airline lounges, Priority Pass membership is not dependent on airline status or ticket class.

The network includes a mix of independent lounges, airline-operated lounges that participate in the program, airport restaurants, and other travel experiences.

2. How much does Priority Pass cost?

Priority Pass sells three membership tiers for individual purchase:

  • Standard: a lower annual fee, then a flat charge per lounge visit
  • Standard Plus: a mid annual fee that includes a set number of free visits, then a per-visit charge
  • Prestige: a higher annual fee with unlimited lounge visits included

Exact prices are set by Priority Pass and vary by region, so check the current rates on the official site before buying. Guest visits are charged separately on most plans. For travelers who already hold a premium card, the cheapest route is usually a credit card that includes Priority Pass rather than paying for a membership directly.

Members present their Priority Pass card or digital membership at participating lounges. Guest access policies vary by membership type and the specific lounge.

3. Priority Pass and Credit Cards

Many travel credit cards include Priority Pass membership as a cardholder benefit. This is one of the most common ways travelers access the Priority Pass network without purchasing a membership directly.

Credit card-based Priority Pass memberships may differ from purchased memberships in terms of:

  • Guest policies and guest fees
  • Annual visit limits
  • Access to restaurants and experiences
  • Lounge restrictions during peak times

Terms vary by credit card issuer. Cardholders should review their specific card benefits for details.

View credit cards with lounge access

4. Is Priority Pass worth it?

Priority Pass is usually worth it if you visit lounges several times a year and your credit cards do not already include access. If you fly less often, buying an airport lounge day pass for each trip can cost less than an annual membership. And if you carry a premium travel card, you may already have Priority Pass at no extra cost, so paying again would be redundant.

It helps to compare networks before committing: see Priority Pass vs LoungeKey vs DragonPass, or how to get lounge access for free.

5. What This Site Does NOT Do

  • We do not sell Priority Pass memberships.
  • We do not issue credit cards or process applications.
  • We do not guarantee lounge access or availability.
  • We are not affiliated with Priority Pass or Collinson Group.

This page is for informational purposes only. For official information, visit the Priority Pass website directly.

Summary

Priority Pass is an independent lounge network with 1,500+ locations worldwide. Access is available through direct membership or as a benefit included with many travel credit cards.

Official Source

For the most current membership plans, lounge locations, and access policies, visit the official Priority Pass website at prioritypass.com.

Last Updated: June 2026

Related: LoungeKey · DragonPass · Lounge day passes · What is an airport lounge?

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