Inside Air India’s First Flagship Maharaja Lounge: Sleep Suites, Crystal Bars And Fine Dining With A Tarmac View

Air India has officially unveiled its first flagship ‘Maharaja Lounge’ at Terminal 3 of the Indira Gandhi International Airport, taking premium travel to new heights. Starting February 16, 2026, the lounge will open its doors to First Class and Business Class passengers, as well as Gold and Platinum Maharaja Club members. It promises to be an experience of its own kind where travellers can not only sit and relax, but also indulge and explore something different at every corner. This lounge is designed to be a 'home away from home' for international travellers, combining India's rich history with world-class luxury.

A Blend Of Royal Heritage And Modern Luxury

Spanning a massive 16,000 square feet and designed by the world-renowned Hirsch Bedner Associates, the lounge can comfortably host over 250 guests in its Business Class lounge and over 30 in the first lounge. Whether you want to work, sleep, or simply enjoy a drink while watching planes take off, there is a dedicated space for you based on the kind of energy you are tempted to feed on. If you are in an upbeat mood, the high-energy area like the Aviator's Bar will cater to you or if yo are in a mood to sit back and relax, then the Serenity zone is made for you, where you can find a place on the recliners, put your feet up, read a book or just doze off to recharge.

Let's dive deep into the different sections of Air India’s Maharaja Lounge-

The Aviator’s Bar: Inspired by J.R.D. Tata’s historic 1932 flight, the ceiling is shaped like an airplane propeller. It offers a 'speakeasy' vibe with a collection of fine wines and whiskeys. The bartenders are known to shake up a delicious cocktail/mocktail for you as you step into the zone. Its design draws inspiration from the historic 1932 flight from Karachi to Bombay by Mr JRD Tata, which is the perfect example of traditions meeting modern art.

The Globetrotter’s Study: A quiet nook for readers and professionals, equipped with a curated library and high-speed internet. Consisting of comfortable recliners in a little corner space of the lounge, this area helps put you at ease in a crowded place. Pick a book, sit back and indulge. It also offers a postcard that you can keep as memorabilia and send a memory to your loved ones.

Serenity Area: An enclosed area with a calming atmosphere, the Serenity Area is a space that accommodates individual recliners for guests to relax, rest, and rejuvenate.

Crystal Bar: The star of the First Class section, this one-of-a-kind bar serves premium champagnes in a shimmering, picture-perfect setting. Also serving classic and signature cocktails, its crystal enclosures create a shimmering effect, making it a picture-perfect location to raise a toast to luxury.

Sleep Suites: For those needing rest before a long flight, exclusive suites are available to ensure you wake up refreshed.

Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said, “The Maharaja Lounge at Delhi airport is a significant milestone in our transformation journey. It is a tangible and proud representation of the ‘New Air India Experience’. We endeavour to set a benchmark in aviation hospitality, and this is just the beginning. Our strategic expansion plans include substantial investments to build more such platforms across countries that we fly to, that will redefine luxury and comfort for our guests.”

Like a cherry on the cake, food is at the heart of Air India's Maharaja Lounge. Travellers can enjoy live cooking stations featuring both Indian and international cuisines. They have separate sections for veg and non-veg food, which further brings an ease to the guests. On the other hand, the seating and dining sections of the ‘First Class’ lounge overlook the tarmac, offering enchanting views of aircraft taking off and landing. Guests can even enjoy the sunrise and sunsets with fine dining experience.

Besides the Maharaja Lounge at IGI Airport, Air India plans to open the same in New York and San Francisco by the end of this year.