Air India Opens First Signature Maharaja Lounge at San Francisco Airport, Expanding Premium Global Experience

Air India expanded its premium international offering in May with the debut of its first signature Maharaja Lounge outside India, opening at San Francisco International Airport and bringing a distinctly Indian sense of hospitality to one of the airline’s most important North American gateways.

The launch marked another milestone in Air India’s ongoing transformation, extending the airline’s evolving premium experience beyond its home market. Following the unveiling of its flagship Maharaja Lounge in Delhi, the San Francisco location became the second in a planned series of signature lounges designed to elevate the ground experience for international travelers.

Located near the A Gates in the airport’s International Terminal, The Maharaja Lounge spanned more than 3,300 square feet and accommodated nearly 80 guests. The space was available to Air India’s First and Business Class passengers, as well as Platinum and Gold members of the Maharaja Club loyalty program. A dedicated Private Zone overlooking the tarmac was reserved exclusively for First Class travelers.

Designed by the award-winning hospitality design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), the lounge blended contemporary luxury with elements inspired by Indian heritage. Champagne, ivory, and deep red tones echoed Air India’s visual identity, while signature Vista motifs appeared throughout the interiors, creating a setting that felt both modern and unmistakably connected to the airline’s roots.

The design philosophy mirrored that of the recently launched Delhi lounge, reinforcing Air India’s ambition to create a consistent premium experience across its global network. Regional artwork, installations inspired by Indian culture, and creative pieces crafted from upcycled aircraft components further connected the space to the airline’s legacy while introducing a distinctly contemporary aesthetic.

At the center of the lounge experience was the Aviator’s Bar, a sophisticated space inspired by classic speakeasies. Featuring a curated selection of wines and whiskies, the bar also served signature cocktails, including the Maharaja Manhattan, a reinterpretation of the classic cocktail infused with black pepper, often referred to as the “Maharaja of spices.”

Elsewhere, the lounge was thoughtfully organized into distinct zones designed to meet the needs of modern travelers. The Social Zone encouraged conversation and connection, while maintaining pockets of privacy for those seeking a quieter experience. A spacious dining area featured a rotating selection of Indian and international cuisine, complemented by live cooking stations, hot and cold buffets, and an extensive beverage program.

One of the lounge’s most compelling features was its panoramic view of the airfield. Both the Business Class section and the exclusive Private Zone overlooked the tarmac, offering guests front-row views of aircraft movements while they dined, worked, or relaxed before departure.

The Private Zone itself reflected the airline’s renewed focus on exclusivity and personalized service. Conceived as a quieter retreat within the larger lounge, the space provided First Class guests with an elevated environment for work, relaxation, or pre-flight dining.

Functionality was given equal importance. High-speed Wi-Fi, conveniently positioned charging points, and full wheelchair accessibility ensured that the experience addressed the expectations of today’s global traveler while maintaining an atmosphere of understated luxury.

Commenting on the opening, Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India, described the San Francisco launch as the beginning of a new generation of signature lounges for the airline. He noted that North America has long been a key pillar of Air India’s network and that the airline’s continued investments reflect both its commitment to the region and its ambition to deliver a new standard of travel experiences.

More than simply another airport lounge, The Maharaja Lounge represented Air India’s effort to bring a sense of place into the travel experience. For passengers departing San Francisco, the journey to India now began well before boarding, in a space designed to offer a sophisticated introduction to the country’s hospitality, culture, and enduring sense of welcome.