Air India debuts its first signature Maharaja Lounge outside India as part of a broader carrier transformation now underway. The new space opened at San Francisco International Airport on May 23.
The 3,300 square-foot lounge sits near Gate A1 in the International Terminal. As Air India debuts its first signature Maharaja Lounge outside India, the space builds directly on its Delhi flagship launched earlier this year. It welcomes up to 80 guests at a time, keeping the experience intimate rather than crowded.
What the Lounge Offers
The lounge features live cooking stations and a speakeasy-style cocktail bar named the Aviator’s Bar. Art crafted from upcycled aircraft parts lines the walls throughout the space. Champagne and ivory tones combine with deep reds to create a refined, welcoming aesthetic.
First and Business Class passengers get full access to the space. Gold and Platinum Maharaja Club members can also use the lounge freely. Star Alliance elite travellers qualify for entry too, widening the pool of eligible guests. Hirsch Bedner Associates designed the concept for Air India, drawing on the airline’s heritage throughout.
Leadership Weighs In
CEO Campbell Wilson called North America a key pillar of Air India’s network. He said the SFO opening reflects the airline’s ongoing push to raise travel standards abroad and match global competitors.
Air India currently connects San Francisco to Delhi and Kolkata directly. The airline also runs onward Seoul service connecting through to Delhi. More signature lounges are expected to follow across its wider global network in the coming years.
Turns out even a layover can feel like a small trip home. That’s the bet Air India is making at 35,000 feet and firmly on the ground too.
