Which airline opened the world's first airport lounge, the Admirals Club, in 1939?

American Airlines opened the world's first airport lounge, the Admirals Club, in 1939.

The first club opened at New York's LaGuardia Airport after American Airlines president C. R. Smith was offered honorary membership in an airport club. Smith instead created a private lounge for American's passengers and invited guests.

The Admirals Club helped establish the modern airport-lounge concept: a quieter space away from crowded public terminal areas, offering seating and hospitality before flights. The name was chosen because Smith had been made an honorary admiral of the Texas Navy.

Airport lounges later became important loyalty benefits for frequent flyers and premium-cabin passengers. The Admirals Club should not be confused with airline-branded lounges that appeared later under other names.