Air India Opens New Flagship Maharaja Lounge at Delhi Airport (DEL)
Air India has opened its first flagship Maharaja Lounge at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Terminal 3. This new lounge opened on February 16th, 2026, and offers travelers a blend of authentic Indian hospitality and contemporary luxury.
The new lounge is located in the international pier of T3 and spans 16,000 square feet (1,486 m²) with a seating capacity for 300 customers. The previous (international) lounge had been closed for about 14 months while construction of the new lounge was being done. The decor of the lounge features marble flooring with brass fixtures. The lounge features an expansive ‘Business Class’ section as well as an exclusive ‘First Class’ section called ‘Air India First.’
Inside the lounge there are some special signature areas, including
- The Aviator’s Bar pays tribute to the airline’s origins, drawing inspiration from the historic 1932 flight piloted by J. R. D. Tata from Karachi to Bombay. The ceiling design echoes the propeller of the Puss Moth aircraft, while the bar offers a curated selection of premium wines and whiskies.
- The Globetrotter’s Study offers a quiet, well-appointed workspace with a curated book collection, ample charging spots, and high-speed (Wi-Fi) connectivity.
- The Serenity Area provides enclosed recliners for guests seeking rest and relaxation before departure.
Inside the First Class area there are some additional unique venues, including
- The Crystal Bar, the centerpiece of the first-class section, serves sparkling wines, champagnes, and signature cocktails in an elegant setting inspired by subtle Indian motifs.
- The Sleep Suites offer guests the opportunity for restorative pre-flight rest.
The Delhi flagship lounge is the first in a series of new-generation lounges planned at key airports in India and internationally.
Access
First and Business Class, as well as Maharaja Club Platinum and Gold members and eligible Star Alliance Gold members, receive complimentary access to the lounge. The lounge is not currently partnered with Priority Pass or Dragonpass, but I could see them possibly joining sometime in the future.
Press Release: Air India Welcomes Guests to New Flagship Maharaja Lounge at Delhi Airport
Closing Thoughts
There are currently five Maharajah lounges around the world, appearing in both India and the United States. Also, sometime in 2026 there will be a new lounge opening in San Francisco (SFO) with the same design as the Delhi lounge.