China airport lounge criticised for demanding proof of assets worth US$2.8 million for entry
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On July 17, a Chinese netizen shared online that, as a client of China Merchants Bank's 'Golden Sunflower' programme, she inquired about accessing the international First Class Lounge at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in Sichuan province in southwestern China. She was informed that, in addition to using reward points, she would also need to provide proof of assets amounting to at least 20 million yuan.
The netizen explained that she had bought an economy class ticket but aspired to rest in the international First and Business Class Lounge at Terminal 1. She wrote: 'I arrived at the airport early and searched online for available lounges. I noticed that Golden Sunflower clients could use them, and since I happen to be one, I called for clarification. But then I learned I needed to verify 20 million yuan in assets! Moreover, property and vehicles don't count! Poverty really limits my imagination!'
Many banks commonly include airport lounge access as a benefit in their credit card and banking product redemption programmes to attract and retain clients. Photo: Shutterstock
She continued: 'I'm baffled as to how they determined this 20 million yuan and 9 points threshold. Anyone with such wealth would likely just purchase a business-class ticket outright. Why would they bother redeeming points for lounge access?'
According to publicly available information, Golden Sunflower cards typically require an average monthly balance of at least 500,000 yuan (US$70,000) to open, with airport lounge access being a primary benefit promised to cardholders.
In response to the requirements, airport staff explained: 'If you've bought a first or business class international ticket, you can access the lounge directly. If not, you can pay 600 yuan (US$85) for individual use. For China Merchants Bank cardholders, verifying assets over 20 million yuan is necessary. Lounge access is by reservation only, and cardholders must contact the issuing bank to verify eligibility and complete the booking process.'
Passengers flying in first or business class typically enjoy VIP lounge access, enhancing their overall travel experience. Photo: Shutterstock
China Merchants Bank later confirmed that this rule has been effective since June 2024.
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