Originally Posted by work2fly

That was exactly my point, which I didn't state as clearly as I could. I would ordinarily never dream of getting a card for my 13 year old, but since it doesn't cost anything additional, I will do it just to avoid the guest fee.

And for the couple who travels 5 or 6 times per year, getting an AU for the spouse now makes economic sense. No change to the current overcrowding, and Amex collects more fee revenue. Moreover, if you're now paying for up to three AUs, why not give the remaining 2 to siblings or parents, a net increase to eligible lounge visitors!