Dragonpass Challenges Priority Pass With Consumer Subscriptions
Dragonpass has launched direct-to-consumer annual lounge access subscriptions, starting at £59, creating its first head-to-head competition with market leader Priority Pass.
Dragonpass has launched annual lounge access subscriptions directly to consumers for the first time. This move creates direct competition with Priority Pass, which has long dominated the paid lounge access market. Dragonpass is now selling subscription cards to the public, offering three distinct membership tiers with included visits and data benefits.
Dragonpass offers three subscription tiers. The entry-level plan costs £59 per year and includes two lounge visits. The mid-tier plan is priced at £229 annually and provides eight shareable passes. The top-tier plan costs £329 per year and includes twelve passes, with the ability to bring up to five guests.
Pricing and benefits comparison
Dragonpass offers tiered plans with included visits and guest sharing while Priority Pass maintains its traditional model with varying visit counts and guest fees. A direct comparison of their core consumer offerings reveals key differences in structure and value.
| Plan Provider | Annual Cost | Member Visits Included | Guest Policy & Cost | Additional Key Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dragonpass Entry | £59 | 2 | £29 per additional visit/guest | 1GB eSIM data |
| Dragonpass Mid | £229 | 8 | Pass sharing with one named guest | £26 restaurant credit, Fast Track, 1GB eSIM |
| Dragonpass Top | £329 | 12 | Pass sharing with up to five guests | £26 restaurant credit, Fast Track, 2GB eSIM |
| Priority Pass Standard | £229 | 10 | Guests cost £24 each | None |
| Priority Pass Prestige | £419 | Unlimited | Guests cost £24 each | None |
Dragonpass allows pass sharing with guests at its mid and top tiers, a feature not offered by Priority Pass at any level. The inclusion of eSIM mobile data is another Dragonpass exclusive. Both programs are reported to cover largely similar lounge networks.
Network and technology advantages
Dragonpass provides eSIM data benefits and leverages Collinson's lounge network while Priority Pass develops app functionality. Every Dragonpass subscription includes a complimentary eSIM, with 1GB of data on the lower tiers and 2GB on the top plan. Dragonpass offers access through lounges like No1 Lounge, which is run by Collinson-the same company that owns Priority Pass.
Meanwhile, Priority Pass has been rolling out a new app designed to let users manage multiple memberships under a single account. This app rollout is being phased, meaning not all memberships are yet compatible with the new functionality.
Dragonpass subscriptions are available for purchase directly on its website. For travelers, the new £59 Dragonpass plan could represent a saving. Someone replacing a £69 Priority Pass card would save £10 by switching to Dragonpass's entry tier.
Priority Pass frequently runs promotional offers, particularly around Black Friday and through partner channels, which can reduce the effective cost of its cards. The lounge landscape itself is evolving, with operators like Aspire refurbishing and opening new spaces. A recently refurbished Aspire Lounge in Birmingham Airport holds 135 guests. Aspire also opened a new 300-seat lounge in Manchester Airport's Terminal 2, featuring dining zones, work booths, and family areas. The brand is also expanding its luxury retail presence at London Heathrow's Terminal 5.
The key shift is Dragonpass's new direct-to-consumer sales model.
