SAN FRANCISCO— Air India (AI) has officially opened its newest premium lounge at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), called ‘The Maharaja Lounge’. The facility opens its doors to guests on May 23, marking a significant step in the airline’s ongoing product transformation across international gateways.
Located near Gate A1 in the International Terminal at San Francisco (SFO), the new lounge extends the carrier’s elevated hospitality offering to North America. The launch follows the recent debut of Air India’s flagship lounge at Delhi (DEL) and represents the second in a planned series of signature lounges.
A New Chapter in Air India’s Premium Hospitality
The Maharaja Lounge at SFO spans 3,300 square feet and accommodates up to 80 guests at a time. The space features contemporary interiors that combine modern design with elements rooted in traditional Indian aesthetics.
Access to the lounge is reserved for Air India’s First Class and Business Class passengers. Platinum and Gold tier members of the airline’s Maharaja Club loyalty program can also use the facility. A dedicated zone within the lounge has been reserved exclusively for First Class guests, offering an additional layer of privacy and refined service.
Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India, stated that the opening builds on the recent launch of the flagship lounge at Delhi. He noted that North America has long been a key pillar of the airline’s network and that continued investments reflect the carrier’s ambition to introduce a new standard of travel experiences in the region.
Wilson added that Air India is focused on delivering a consistent, elevated experience across its network as the airline transforms into a world-class global carrier. The goal is to blend modern luxury with the warmth and timeless appeal of Indian hospitality.
Design Philosophy and Cultural Integration
The lounge was conceptualised by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), an award-winning global hospitality design firm. The design mirrors the philosophy of the flagship Maharaja Lounge in Delhi, positioning the SFO facility as part of a coordinated network of signature lounges.
The interior palette draws from the airline’s brand colours, featuring hues of champagne, ivory, and deep reds. Brand motifs appear throughout the space, including ‘Vista’ patterns integrated into walls and furniture. The design intends to evoke quintessential Indian hospitality through warmth, comfort, and understated luxury.
To honour the airline’s historical connection to the arts, the space features works by local artists that showcase regional heritage. Select installations incorporate upcycled aircraft components, thoughtfully reimagined into contemporary art pieces. This approach connects the lounge’s identity to the broader aviation legacy of the carrier.
Curated Zones Within the Lounge
The Maharaja Lounge at SFO has been organised into several distinct zones, each serving a specific guest need.
The Aviator’s Bar carries a speakeasy atmosphere and is anchored by a curated selection of wines and whiskies. The signature cocktail menu includes the Maharaja Manhattan, a regal twist on the classic Manhattan that honours black pepper as the Maharaja of spices. Warm hues and a distinctive ceiling design define the visual identity of this section.
The Tarmac View area offers seating and dining sections within the Private Zone and Business Class lounge that overlook the airport tarmac. Guests can observe aircraft taking off and landing while dining, creating an immersive experience for plane-spotters and aviation enthusiasts.
The Social Zone sits adjacent to the Aviator’s Bar and serves as the primary community space within the lounge. The area captures the dynamic spirit of modern travel through seating arrangements that encourage both spontaneous conversation and group interaction. The configuration also offers pockets of privacy for guests who prefer more intimate moments.
The Dining Area presents a curated selection of Indian and international culinary options. The space includes live cooking stations, a hot buffet island, a cold counter, and a beverage station. Guests can choose from a wide range of delicacies prepared on-site.
The Private Zone is tucked into a serene corner of the lounge. The space is designed for heightened privacy and elevated service, allowing First Class guests to relax, work, or unwind in a discreet environment before departure.
Strategic Importance of the SFO Lounge
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) serves as a critical gateway for Air India’s North American operations.
The opening of The Maharaja Lounge at this hub signals the carrier’s commitment to upgrading the ground experience for premium travellers on transpacific routes.
The new facility is the second in what Air India describes as a new generation of signature lounges.
The first opened in Delhi (DEL) earlier and serves as the design template for future locations. The airline has indicated that further lounge openings will follow as part of its broader transformation programme.
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