Austin Airport: Former Chase Sapphire Lounge

In case you are wondering what will be happening to the 3,994 square foot terrance which used to be the Chase Sapphire Lounge at the Austin airport:  it will be reopening as available to the flying public from 8a-8p on a daily basis.   The linked KUT article mentions the airport is building a second terrance, and said terrance will be in part occupied by the American Airlines Admirals Club.   

The article also mentions that the airport is looking for another premium credit card club.  My vote is for an American Express Centurion Lounge.   I like the Centurion Lounges I've visited, for one.  And from the Amex perspective: they like to go with local food themes of which Austin offers many options.  A taco station, or perhaps a barbecue buffet?  I'm no chef but these seem obvious (and delicious).  

Fun Map... If You Like Roman History

 

View on Threads

REAL ID Deadline Next Month

Yes, if you have followed the articles on REAL ID then you know the deadline has been postponed a few times in the past.  The TSA published a final rule on REAL ID earlier this year, setting the deadline for May 7th.   On and after said date you'll need a REAL ID driver's license or a valid passport to board a commercial flight (including services like JSX) in the US.  

If you have questions, you can visit the Department of Homeland Security's FAQ page on REAL ID.

Best of Austin Poll

 There is still time to vote in the Austin Chronicle's Best of Austin poll.  You have until tomorrow night at 11:59p to vote and/or change your vote.  

CapMetro New App

 The old CapMetro payment app has been retired, and riders who want to pay via app must now use the Umo app.  Tap-to-pay (which lets riders pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit, or debit cards) is forthcoming at some point.  I haven't ridden the bus in a while, but I recall the old app being somewhat cumbersome.  I'm looking forward to the tap-to-pay system, which if anything like London's TFL payment system should be pleasant to use.  

CapMetro is now recommending using the Transit app for trip planning in Austin.  You can also try City Mapper, which I used on my last trip to London and found to be highly useful.