Air India Opens Maharaja Lounge at Delhi International Airport
Air India has unveiled The Maharaja Lounge, its first flagship lounge, at Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), New Delhi. The lounge marks a key step in the airline’s ongoing efforts to enhance the premium travel experience, reflecting Indian hospitality through contemporary design and service.
Designed in line with Air India’s new branding and design philosophy, The Maharaja Lounge blends heritage-inspired elements with modern aesthetics. This is the first in a planned series of lounges that the airline intends to introduce at airports in India and internationally. The lounge will be opened in phases from 16 February 2026 for guests travelling in Business and First Class, Gold and Platinum Maharaja Club members, and eligible Star Alliance members.
Conceptualised by global design studio Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), the lounge features refined interiors, ambient lighting, and furnishings aligned with Air India’s refreshed visual identity. Art installations across the space reflect themes drawn from India’s culture and history, creating a sense of place for travellers.
The Maharaja Lounge is divided into multiple zones designed to suit different preferences, offering quiet areas for work and rest alongside spaces intended for social interaction.
Key areas include:
The Aviator’s Bar: Styled with a speakeasy influence, the bar offers a selection of wines and whiskies. Its design references the 1932 Karachi–Bombay flight by JRD Tata, with a ceiling inspired by the Puss Moth aircraft’s propeller.
The Globetrotter’s Study: A dedicated work and reading area featuring a curated collection of fiction and non-fiction titles, along with power outlets and high-speed connectivity.
Serenity Area: An enclosed space with individual recliners designed for rest and relaxation.
Crystal Bar (First Class Lounge): A bar serving champagnes and a range of classic and signature cocktails, featuring crystal elements and Indian design accents.
Tarmac View: Seating and dining areas in the First Class section overlook the runway, offering views of aircraft movements.
Sleep Suites: Available to First Class guests, these private suites are designed for pre-flight rest, with light refreshments offered before departure.
Dining and Beverage Experience
The Maharaja Lounge offers a curated dining programme featuring Indian and international cuisine, supported by live cooking stations. A “Beverage on Wheels” service, inspired by traditional gueridon service, allows guests to order cocktails at their seats. The cocktail menu, developed by a mixologist, draws inspiration from Indian ingredients, culture, and Air India’s heritage.
The airline has also introduced a dedicated Tea Programme, offering freshly brewed teas served from a tea trolley, accompanied by snacks and savouries.
Thoughtful Guest Touchpoints
As part of the lounge experience, guests can access Maharaja-themed postcards designed as keepsakes, adding a personal and cultural touch to the journey.
Commenting on the launch, Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said: “The Maharaja Lounge at Delhi airport represents an important step in our transformation journey and reflects the New Air India experience. It is part of our wider plan to invest in products and services that enhance comfort and consistency for our guests across our network.”
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