Why Lounge Access in the US is a joke

I just have to say it! Having recently moved from Europe, more specifically the UK to New York, one thing really struck me when comparing frequent flyer airlines benefits. Being an Executive Club Silver I have access to Oneworld lounges, in particular American airlines or US Airways.

The main difference in the US is that lounge access is a source of revenue for airlines. Passengers regardless of their elite status have to buy a membership to access the Admirals Club when flying domestically, costing between $350 and $500 annually and a $50 initiation fee (there is an option to pay with miles between 45,000 and 80,000 AAdvantage miles, enough to fly first class from the US to Hong Kong!). 

You earned your elite status, now come pay more to access the lounge!

Another key factor facilitating this trend is the vast number of co-branded credit cards. The premium version of this card offers lounge access but requires a $450 annual fee, not waived for the first year. 

So American Airlines actually sells a benefit that is entirely free for the rest of Oneworld! Indeed, as Oneworld Sapphire, second highest elite status with American or British Airways, I can access all Oneworld lounges wherever I fly, including domestically in the US and even have a guest. That is a great perk that I really enjoy whenever I fly. In theory you have to  be flying Oneworld to access the lounge, however in Bangkok i was able to access the Cathay Pacific lounge with my Delta boarding pass!

On top of that, once you found your - expensive - way to the lounge, you have to pay to drink Premium drinks and eat. However soft drinks, bad wine, coffee and crackers are free. On the other hand, everything is free in lounges in Europe or Asia regardless of the alliance. I tested that in British Airways or Air France lounge for instance. The funny thing is that upon entering an Admirals Club lounge with my British Airways or Cathay Pacific Sapphire elite card, I automatically get handed two free vouchers for "Premium" drinks! Yes, the exact same one that a regular AA frequent flyer would have to pay at least $10.

Thanks for paying to enter the lounge, pay again to drink!

All in all I understand the logic behind making lounge access a revenue source as the alternative would be to have overcrowded lounges and a potentially decline in service. but it is just a shame that US frequent flyer don't enjoy the same benefits as the rest of the world.