Air India has opened its first flagship airport lounge, The Maharaja Lounge, at Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi), positioning the space as a cornerstone of the carrier’s broader premium experience overhaul.
The airline said the lounge reflects Air India’s refreshed branding and design philosophy, blending heritage-inspired cues with contemporary finishes and what it describes as “warm Indian hospitality”. The Maharaja Lounge is also intended as the first in a series of new-generation lounges Air India plans to introduce across India and overseas as it lifts its ground product.
Access will be phased in from 16 February 2026 for guests travelling in First and Business Class, Gold and Platinum Maharaja Club members, and eligible Star Alliance Gold members.
Air India has segmented the lounge into distinct zones to suit different traveller needs from quieter areas for work and reading to more social spaces for drinks and dining. Signature areas highlighted by the airline include The Aviator’s Bar, inspired by the historic 1932 Karachi-to-Bombay flight associated with JRD Tata; The Globetrotter’s Study, designed as a calm working and reading nook with a curated library and power access; and a dedicated Serenity Area with individual recliners for rest and recovery.
Within the First Class section, Air India is also promoting the Crystal Bar serving champagnes and cocktails, tarmac-view seating and dining, and Sleep Suites aimed at pre-flight rest for First Class travellers.
On the food and beverage front, the lounge will offer Indian and international menus with live cooking stations, alongside a “Beverage on Wheels” service inspired by gueridon-style presentation. Air India also flagged a dedicated tea programme, featuring freshly brewed teas served from a trolley with accompanying snacks and savouries.
To add a keepsake element, the airline has introduced Maharaja-designed postcards for guests to take away as souvenirs.
Air India CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson said, “The Maharaja Lounge at Delhi airport is a significant milestone in our transformation journey. It is a tangible and proud representation of the ‘New Air India Experience’. We endeavour to set a benchmark in aviation hospitality, and this is just the beginning. Our strategic expansion plans include substantial investments to build more such platforms across countries that we fly to that will redefine luxury and comfort for our guests.”