Air India Opens New Lounge in San Francisco

By Ivan PetrenkoMay 23, 2026 21:19 PMNews
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Seating area inside Air India’s Maharaja Lounge
Private seating overlooks the airport tarmac. Source: Air India

Air India has opened its new Maharaja Lounge at San Francisco International Airport, adding a fresh premium space at one of its key international gateways. The lounge officially welcomes guests from 23 May and sits near Gate A1 in the International Terminal. It forms part of the airline’s wider service revamp, following the recent launch of its flagship Maharaja Lounge in Delhi.

The San Francisco lounge covers 3,300 sq. ft. and has room for 80 guests. Access is available to Air India First and Business Class customers, along with Platinum and Gold members of the Maharaja Club loyalty programme. A separate private area is reserved for First Class guests, giving them a quieter space before departure.

Designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates, the lounge combines modern interiors with Indian design references. Its champagne, ivory and deep red tones reflect Air India’s colour palette, while Vista patterns appear across walls and furniture. The space also includes works by local artists and art pieces made with upcycled aircraft components, linking the airline’s past with its newer premium style.

What Guests Will Find Inside

The lounge is divided into several areas, each aimed at a different pre-flight need:

  • The Aviator’s Bar with wines, whiskies and signature cocktails
  • Dining areas with Indian and international dishes
  • Seating with tarmac views
  • A social zone for small groups
  • A private First Class area for work or rest
Bar area inside Air India’s Maharaja Lounge
Aviator’s Bar adds premium pre-flight comfort. Source: Air India

The opening gives eligible Air India guests at SFO a more comfortable place to wait before long-haul flights, especially on routes where airport time can feel endless. It also shows how the airline wants to make its premium service more visible outside India. For travellers, the main gain is simple: better food, quieter seating and a less rushed start before boarding.

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