New: Sapphire Reserve Cardholders Can Now Access Air Canada Lounges

Travelers with a *chase sapphire reserve* in their wallets have a new lounge option when traveling north of the border, across the pond to Europe, and even at a few airports at home in the U.S. 

Thanks to a recently announced agreement between Chase and Air Canada, Sapphire Reserve cardholders can now access select Maple Leaf Lounges and Cafés when flying on a Star Alliance carrier, like United or Air Canada. This includes Air Canada lounges at U.S. airports in Los Angeles (LAX), New York-LaGuardia (LGA), and San Francisco (SFO).

At this time, Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers and their guests are not eligible for access to the Montréal (YUL) Maple Leaf Lounges.  Aside from that, every other lounge in Air Canada's network is fair game, making this a welcome addition for Sapphire Reserve cardholders whose lounge options were dwindled earlier this summer with the loss of Priority Pass restaurants. 

To get in, simply present your Sapphire Reserve and a same-day Star Alliance boarding pass at the check-in desk.

Traveling with a friend? They're welcome to join you, but it comes at a cost … and that cost depends on which country you're in. It's a flat fee of 59 – as in 59 Dollars (both Canadian and U.S.), Euros, or Pounds. Given the different value of each currency, guests will be cheapest in Canada and the most expensive in the U.K. 

We've long considered *amex platinum card* to be best for lounge access – but this news, coupled with Chase's growing network of Sapphire-branded lounges might be a sign that the tide is beginning to turn. Sapphire Reserve cardholders also have access to the massive Priority Pass network of lounges, opening the door to an additional 1,300+ airport lounges and experiences around the world. 

Beyond lounge access the Sapphire Reserve is a really great card for frequent travelers, thanks to its top-notch travel protections, ability to earn bonus points in key spending categories, and statement credit to cover the cost of TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or NEXUS.

It doesn't come cheap at $550 per year, but much of that fee can be easily offset with the card's easy-to-use $300 travel credit.

Read more: The Best Travel Perks & Benefits of the Chase Sapphire Reserve

Bottom Line

Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders can now access Air Canada's Maple Leaf Lounges and Cafés when flying a Star Alliance airline like Air Canada or United. With lounges scattered across The Great White North, Europe, and the U.S., this is a welcome addition for travelers with Chase's ultra-premium card in their wallet. 

But there's one downside: Guests are not free. 

Learn more about the *chase sapphire reserve*