Air India will open its first Maharaja Lounge at San Francisco International Airport on May 23, offering premium flyers a 3,300 sq. ft. space with dining, bar and tarmac views.
1 / 7Air India’s New Move: Air India has announced the opening of its first signature Maharaja Lounge at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), expanding the airline’s upgraded travel experience to one of its key overseas destinations. The lounge, located near Gate A1 in the International Terminal, will open to guests on May 23. Air India said the launch is part of its ongoing efforts to upgrade products and services across important international routes.
2 / 7Inside The Lounge: Spread across 3,300 sq. ft., the Maharaja Lounge combines modern interiors with Indian-inspired design elements. The lounge can accommodate 80 guests and will be accessible to Air India’s First and Business Class passengers, along with Platinum and Gold members of the Maharaja Club loyalty programme. A separate Private Zone has also been created exclusively for First Class travellers seeking greater privacy and personalised services before departure.
3 / 7Why SFO Matters: Air India Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Campbell Wilson said the San Francisco launch follows the opening of the airline’s flagship lounge in Delhi and marks the start of a new generation of signature lounges. He said North America remains an important market for Air India and added that the airline’s investments in the region are aimed at improving the travel experience for passengers across its expanding international network.
4 / 7India Theme Continues: The lounge was designed by hospitality design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) and follows the same design approach as Air India’s flagship Maharaja Lounge in Delhi. Air India said the lounge is meant to give travellers a sense of India before boarding. The interiors feature champagne, ivory and deep red shades from the airline’s brand palette, while the carrier’s ‘Vista’ design patterns have been incorporated across walls and furniture.
5 / 7Art Meets Aviation: Air India said the lounge reflects Indian hospitality through comfort-focused spaces and curated artwork. The facility includes works by local artists inspired by regional heritage. Some art installations also use upcycled aircraft components redesigned into contemporary display pieces, linking the airline’s aviation history with modern interiors. The airline said the overall design aims to balance heritage-inspired details with present-day travel expectations.
6 / 7Bar, Food, Socials: The Maharaja Lounge includes multiple sections designed for different passenger needs. The Aviator’s Bar has a speakeasy-style setting and offers wines, whiskies and signature cocktails, including the Maharaja Manhattan inspired by black pepper. Next to the bar is a Social Zone designed for conversations and group interactions. The dining area serves Indian and international dishes through buffet counters, beverage stations and live cooking stations.
7 / 7Tarmac View Highlight: The Private Zone and Business Class seating areas overlook the airport tarmac, giving guests views of aircraft take-offs and landings. Air India said the quieter Private Zone has been designed for First Class passengers who want space to work, relax or unwind before their flights. The airline added that the lounge is part of its broader effort to offer a more consistent premium travel experience across major global destinations.
