Air India on Friday unveiled its first flagship premium lounge, the Maharaja Lounge, at Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, marking a key step in the airline’s ongoing effort to upgrade its customer experience.

In a press release issued on Feb 6, the Tata Group-owned carrier said the new lounge reflects its refreshed branding and design philosophy, blending heritage-inspired elements with contemporary luxury. The facility will be progressively opened from Feb 16 to passengers travelling in First and Business Class, Gold and Platinum Maharaja Club members, and eligible Star Alliance Gold members.

Designed by global hospitality design studio Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), the Maharaja Lounge features multiple zones tailored to different passenger needs, including spaces for relaxation, work, and social interaction. Air India said the interiors incorporate Indian art and design elements intended to reflect India’s culture and heritage.

Key areas include themed bars, work and reading spaces, a quiet relaxation zone with individual recliners, and exclusive sleep suites for First Class passengers. Parts of the First Class section also offer views of the airport tarmac, allowing guests to watch aircraft take off and land.

The airline said the lounge offers an expanded dining programme with Indian and international dishes, live cooking stations, and a range of beverages. Special services include seat-side cocktail offerings, a curated tea programme highlighting Indian tea culture, and personalised elements such as Maharaja-themed postcards for guests.

“This is a tangible and proud representation of the New Air India Experience,” Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Campbell Wilson said in the statement, describing the lounge as a milestone in the carrier’s transformation. He added that Air India plans to invest in similar lounges at other airports in India and abroad.

The opening of the Maharaja Lounge comes as Air India seeks to reposition itself as a full-service global carrier, following its return to private ownership and a broader strategy to modernise products, services and infrastructure for premium and long-haul travellers.

Source: Air Inida Press Release