Air India has been undergoing a transformation over the past four years, since being privatized. For a long time, it felt like the carrier’s improvements were only coming at a glacial pace. In recent times, progress is finally being made, between taking delivery of new wide bodies, and starting to retrofit existing wide bodies.
Along those lines, recently the airline revealed plans to open its new flagship lounge at Delhi Airport, which has been under construction for quite some time. That lounge has opened as of today, so I’d like to provide an update, as the airline has also shared some additional pictures.
Details of the new Air India Maharaja Lounge Delhi Airport
The Maharaja Lounge is the name of Air India’s new flagship lounge at the international pier of Delhi Airport Terminal 3, which has opened as of today (February 16, 2026).
The 16,000 square foot lounge has the capacity to handle over 300 guests at a time, with a separate section for first class and business class passengers. The lounge is open 24/7 and follows standard Star Alliance lounge access rules, so is also open to Star Alliance Gold members.
The business class section of the lounge has features like The Aviator’s Bar (with a speakeasy vibe), The Globetrotter’s Study (a place to work or read), and The Serenity Area (an area with recliners).
The business class lounge also has a huge buffet with Indian and international favorites, with a live cooking station. In addition to the bar, there’s also a “Beverage on Wheels” program, whereby guests can enjoy cocktails served at their seats, with each signature cocktail having a unique story rooted in Indian culture. There’s also a tea program, whereby guests can select freshly brewed tea along with assorted snacks, presented on a tea trolley.
The first class section of the lounge has views of the apron, private bedrooms, an a la carte dining area, and The Crystal Bar (a contemporary luxury styled bar).
Here’s how Air India CEO Campbell Wilson describes the new lounge:
“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.”
This lounge looks great, good job Air India!
I’m really impressed by what Air India has come up with here, as the new Maharaja Lounge looks like a lovely facility. A few things stand out.
First of all, one thing Air India has done so well with in its transformation is embracing its Indian roots, and I think this lounge is a perfect reflection of that. The design is really great, and feels like it was really designed for India’s flag carrier.
Next, I love how much thought went into the various amenities. I like the idea of cocktails being served at your seat, along with there being a tea trolley. It really feels like the airline wants to create a memorable facility, rather than something that’s simply “good enough.”
I also appreciate how the airline has a dedicated first class section with additional amenities, including sleep rooms — that’s a useful feature! It does look like the business class section doesn’t have much in the way of natural light, which certainly isn’t ideal. But I also understand the constraints with designing lounges.
Bottom line
Air India’s new international lounge has opened at Delhi Airport, and it looks like it’s really well done. It’s named The Maharaja Lounge, and it covers around 16,000 square feet, with seating for around 300 guests. I look forward to checking out this lounge!
What do you make of Air India’s new Maharaja Lounge Delhi Airport?
