Travelers, brace yourselves for a major shake-up in airport lounge access! The Chase Sapphire Lounge in Hong Kong, a beloved haven for jet-setters, is set to close its doors in January 2026, leaving many to wonder what’s next. But here’s where it gets controversial—why is Chase shutting down its first international lounge, and what does this mean for the future of its premium travel offerings? Let’s dive in.
Stephanie Stevens, an associate writer with TPG’s credit cards team, breaks down the details. Known for her timely and insightful content, Stephanie ensures TPG readers stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of credit cards. This time, she’s tackling a change that could impact how you experience airport lounges.
Published on Dec. 03, 2025, this 3-minute read sheds light on a development that’s sure to spark conversations. Before we proceed, a quick note: The cards featured here are from partners who compensate us when you’re approved through our site, which may influence their placement. While we don’t cover every credit card out there, our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely our own. For full transparency, check out our advertising policy and product review methodology.
Chase’s airport lounge network, a cornerstone of its premium travel perks, is about to shrink. The issuer has confirmed that the Sapphire Lounge by The Club at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), which debuted as the first in the Sapphire Lounge portfolio in 2022, will cease operations early next year. This lounge was a trailblazer, paving the way for additional U.S. locations, making its closure all the more surprising.
A notice on Chase’s lounge directory (https://account.chase.com/sapphire-airport-lounge) reveals that travelers passing through HKG will soon lose access to this premium space. What’s puzzling is that Chase hasn’t provided a clear reason for the closure or hinted at a replacement. Is this a strategic retreat, or a temporary setback? The lack of details has left many scratching their heads.
For now, there’s no indication that this is a temporary shutdown or part of a planned relocation. All we know is that the lounge will exit the Sapphire Lounge network in early January, leaving a void in Hong Kong’s premium lounge scene.
How does this affect lounge access in Hong Kong? Well, the Chase Sapphire Lounge at HKG will operate as usual until Jan. 4, 2026, so Sapphire Reserve cardholders and Priority Pass members can still enjoy the space until then. But after Jan. 5, travelers will lose one of the airport’s most comfortable premium lounges. And this is the part most people miss—while it’s a loss, Hong Kong International Airport is still a lounge-rich hub, with plenty of alternatives to explore.
So, where can Sapphire Reserve and Priority Pass members go instead? Fear not—there are still several options at HKG. Priority Pass members can access the Kyra Lounge near Gate 23 or any of the three Plaza Premium Lounge locations across the terminal. Travelers with access to Centurion Lounges can visit the one in Terminal 1, and those flying in premium cabins or holding elite status may qualify for airline lounges from Cathay Pacific, Qantas, and others.
But here’s the bigger question: What does this closure mean for Chase’s commitment to international lounge expansion? While this marks the end of Chase’s first international lounge, the network continues to grow in the U.S., offering cardholders a range of premium airport experiences. Is Chase shifting its focus entirely to domestic markets, or is this just a temporary pause? Only time will tell.
Bottom line: The Hong Kong Sapphire Lounge, Chase’s inaugural international lounge, will close on Jan. 5, 2026. There’s no word yet on what will become of the space or whether Chase cardholders will get a new lounge option in Hong Kong. What’s your take? Is this a strategic move by Chase, or a missed opportunity? Let us know in the comments!
For more insights, check out these related reads:
- The best credit cards for airport lounge access
- Philadelphia will be the next airport to get a Chase lounge
- The 7 do's and don'ts in an airport lounge
- 7 domestic lounges that are worth going out of your way for
- The best Chase credit cards
Featured image by ZACH GRIFF/THE POINTS GUY
Editorial disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline, or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
