Due to a couple of flights coming up where I'm going to have to arrive early and in one case have a long connection, I figure it's time to make arrangements to get into airport lounges. The choices seem to be to get the Amex Plat that they keep sending me letters about or to join PC. The cost for the former would be $395/yr. The cost for the latter would be $375 this year (based on Silver status + initiation) and most likely $275 if I wanted to keep it next year (based on the theory that I'll make one flight beyond what I have scheduled to make it over the edge to Gold). (Actually, out of pocket for the Amex would be more like $325/yr over the $75/yr that I currently pay for the Gold card.)

One of my flights on DL on a U fare. After I booked, they decided to change the schedule so that we now have a 2:45 layover in ATL. I note that the Amex Plat solicitation says "Special industry reduced revenue tickets are not eligible with Delta." Does this apply to my U fare or do they mean Priceline? I don't see anything similar with using the DL lounge as a PC member.

I'm inclined to go with the PC membership figuring it's a bit cheaper, I don't see any other strong benefits for the Plat card (particularly as I read that the companion overseas tickets turn out to be based on an outrageously expensive base fare, that I already have Hertz #1 Gold free through my company, and that I can't afford to eat at the places that they would like to book me into).

Is there anything I'm missing? Where should I spend my money?

Thanks.