New Maharaja Lounge. Photo: Air India Air India has announced the opening of its newest premium airport lounge at San Francisco International Airport, continuing the airline’s broader effort to transform its global passenger experience.
Named “The Maharaja Lounge,” the new facility officially opens to guests on May 23, 2026, and is located near Gate A1 in the airport’s International Terminal. The lounge spans approximately 3,300 square feet and can accommodate up to 80 guests.
Photo: Air IndiaThe launch follows the recent debut of Air India’s flagship lounge in Delhi and represents the second signature lounge in what the airline describes as a new generation of premium hospitality spaces.
According to Air India, access will be available to First and Business Class passengers, as well as Platinum and Gold members of the airline’s Maharaja Club loyalty program. A separate private area has also been created exclusively for First Class travelers.
Designed by global hospitality design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates, the lounge combines contemporary luxury with Indian-inspired design elements.
The interiors feature a color palette of champagne, ivory, and deep red tones, while traditional brand motifs and cultural influences are integrated throughout the space. Air India said the concept was developed to offer passengers an introduction to Indian hospitality before boarding their flights.
The lounge also includes artwork by local artists and decorative installations made using upcycled aircraft components, reflecting the airline’s connection to aviation heritage and sustainability-focused design.
One of the lounge’s standout features is “The Aviator’s Bar,” a speakeasy-style cocktail area offering wines, whiskies, and signature drinks inspired by Indian flavors. Among them is the “Maharaja Manhattan,” a variation of the classic Manhattan cocktail featuring black pepper.
Guests will also have access to dining areas serving both Indian and international cuisine, including live cooking stations, buffet counters, and beverage stations.
Large sections of the lounge overlook the airport tarmac, allowing travelers to watch aircraft movements while dining or relaxing.
Additional spaces include a social zone designed for group interaction and networking, as well as a quieter private area dedicated to First Class travelers seeking a more secluded pre-flight experience.
Air India CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson: "The opening of the Maharaja Lounge at San Francisco builds on the recent launch of our flagship lounge at Delhi, marking the beginning of a new generation of signature lounges for Air India. North America has long been a key pillar of Air India’s network, and our continued investments reflect both, this commitment and our ambition to introduce a new standard of travel experiences in the region in time to come.”
The launch comes as Air India continues a large-scale modernization effort following its return to the Tata Group, with investments in fleet renewal, cabin upgrades, airport lounges, and digital services aimed at repositioning the carrier as a leading global airline.