Air India has opened its newest signature lounge, The Maharaja Lounge, at San Francisco International Airport, as part of the airline’s ongoing transformation and premium customer experience strategy.
The lounge will officially open to guests on May 23 and is located near Gate A1 in the International Terminal at SFO. Spread across 3,300 sq. ft., the facility can accommodate 80 guests and blends contemporary luxury with Indian-inspired aesthetics.
The lounge will be accessible to Air India’s First and Business Class passengers, along with Platinum and Gold members of the airline’s Maharaja Club loyalty programme. A dedicated private zone has also been created exclusively for First Class guests.
Air India sharpens North America focus
Air India Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Campbell Wilson said the launch builds on the airline’s recently opened flagship lounge in Delhi and signals the beginning of a new generation of signature lounges globally.
“North America has long been a key pillar of Air India’s network, and our continued investments reflect this commitment and our ambition to introduce a new standard of travel experiences,” Wilson said.
He added that the airline remains focused on delivering a consistent and elevated customer experience that combines modern luxury with Indian hospitality.
Lounge design blends heritage with modern luxury
Conceptualised by global hospitality design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates, the lounge mirrors the design philosophy of the Maharaja Lounge in Delhi and represents the second in Air India’s signature lounge series.
The interiors feature champagne, ivory and deep red tones inspired by Air India’s brand palette, along with ‘Vista’ motifs integrated into walls and furniture. The space also showcases artworks by local artists and installations made using upcycled aircraft components.
Dedicated spaces for dining, relaxation and socializing
The Maharaja Lounge includes multiple curated zones designed to enhance passenger comfort and engagement.
The Aviator’s Bar offers a speakeasy-inspired setting with a curated selection of wines, whiskies and signature cocktails, including the “Maharaja Manhattan”.
The lounge also features a tarmac-view dining and seating area overlooking aircraft movement, a social zone designed for interaction and networking, and a dining section offering Indian and international cuisine with live cooking stations.
A dedicated Private Zone has been created for First Class travellers, offering enhanced privacy, personalised service and a quieter environment for relaxation or work before departure.