Air India, India’s leading global airline, today announced the opening of its newest signature lounge at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), called ‘The Maharaja Lounge’. Officially opening its doors to guests on May 23, the launch of the new lounge marks another milestone in the airline’s ongoing transformation journey, extending the “new Air India experience” to one of its key international gateways.
Located near Gate A1 in the International Terminal at SFO, The Maharaja Lounge spans over 3,300 sq. ft. and features luxurious contemporary interiors that blend modern design sensibilities with elements rooted in Indian aesthetics. The lounge offers seating for 80 guests and is accessible to Air India’s First and Business Class guests, as well as Platinum and Gold members of the airline’s Maharaja Club loyalty programme. It also includes a dedicated zone exclusively reserved for Air India’s First Class guests.
Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India, said, “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.”
He further added, “As Air India continues to transform into a world-class global airline, we are focused on delivering a consistent, elevated experience across our network, blending modern luxury with the warmth and timeless appeal of Indian hospitality.”
Conceptualised by the award-winning global hospitality design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), The Maharaja Lounge is a refined expression of heritage seamlessly woven with luxury, offering guests an immersive introduction to India even before their journey begins. The lounge mirrors the design philosophy of the recently launched flagship Maharaja Lounge in Delhi, positioning it as the second in a series of signature lounges envisioned by Air India.
Design Approach
Thoughtfully curated, the space integrates distinctive elements of the brand and Air India’s cultural legacy to create an atmosphere that is both warm and sophisticated. Shades of champagne, ivory, and deep red reflect the airline’s brand palette, while signature ‘Vista’ patterns appear throughout the interiors across walls and furnishings. The lounge has been designed to evoke quintessential Indian hospitality through warmth, comfort, and understated luxury.
Honouring the airline’s historic association with the arts, the lounge showcases works by local artists celebrating regional heritage. Select installations also incorporate upcycled aircraft components, reimagined into contemporary art pieces.
Key Features of The Maharaja Lounge
The Aviator’s Bar:
Featuring a sophisticated speakeasy-inspired ambience, the bar houses a curated cellar of premium wines and whiskies selected for discerning travellers. The warm tones and signature ceiling design create an elegant environment for aviation enthusiasts and global travellers alike. Guests can also enjoy thoughtfully crafted signature cocktails, including the Maharaja Manhattan — a refined twist on the classic Manhattan inspired by black pepper, often referred to as the “Maharaja of spices.”
Tarmac View:
The seating and dining sections within the Private Zone and Business Class lounge overlook the airport tarmac, offering captivating views of aircraft take-offs and landings. The “wine and dine with a view” experience caters perfectly to aviation enthusiasts and curious travellers.
Social Zone:
Positioned adjacent to The Aviator’s Bar, the Social Zone has been designed to encourage interaction and community. The vibrant setting captures the dynamic spirit of modern travel while balancing opportunities for social engagement with pockets of privacy and exclusivity.
Dining Area:
The Maharaja Lounge offers an extensive dining experience featuring Indian and international cuisine, including live cooking stations. Guests can choose from hot buffet counters, cold selections, and a comprehensive beverage station.
Private Zone:
Situated in a tranquil corner of the lounge, the Private Zone provides a more intimate setting exclusively for First Class guests. Designed for enhanced comfort and privacy, the area enables travellers to relax, work, or unwind in a calm and discreet environment prior to departure.
