Air India's new 'Maharaja Lounge' at Delhi T3: Who gets in, what's inside, what does it cost?

• Air India opens its flagship Maharaja Lounge at Delhi's Terminal 3
• Access is limited to premium flyers, elite loyalty members, and Star Alliance elites.
• Lounge offers dining, work zones, relaxation areas, and First Class perks.

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Forget the usual cramped airport waiting areas. Air India is upping the game for premium travellers with its first flagship ‘Maharaja Lounge’, now open at Terminal 3 of Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. This isn’t just another lounge; it's a sprawling 16,000-square-foot statement of intent from the revitalised airline.

Opening its doors to eligible passengers from 16 February, the space promises a taste of luxury before take-off. But who can actually get in, what can you do once you’re there, and what might it cost? Here’s a breakdown.

Who can step inside?



This exclusive lounge isn’t open to everyone. Access is tightly controlled and is not currently available for a simple payment at the door. Entry is reserved for:

* Premium flyers: Passengers booked in Air India’s First or Business Class on qualifying international flights.

* Loyalty members: Gold and Platinum tier members of Air India’s Maharaja Club frequent flyer programme.

* Alliance elites: Star Alliance Gold members (and above) who are travelling internationally in Business or First Class on any Star Alliance member airline.

The lounge can hold up to 300 people, blending modern design with subtle Indian motifs as part of Air India’s new brand look.

What’s inside? Features & facilities



Designed by global hospitality experts Hirsch Bedner Associates, the lounge is cleverly divided into zones, so you can choose your own pre-flight adventure.

* To eat & drink: Live cooking stations dish up Indian and international cuisine. There’s a unique ‘Beverage on Wheels’ trolley service bringing crafted cocktails to your seat, and a special ‘Tea Programme’ showcasing Indian varieties. For something stronger, the speakeasy-style ‘Aviator’s Bar’ offers a selection of wines and whiskies.

* To work: Need to finish some emails? Head to ‘The Globetrotter’s Study’, a quiet area with fast Wi-Fi designed for focused work or reading.

* To relax: The ‘Serenity Area’ has recliners for a quick nap. First Class guests have it even better, with access to a separate ‘Crystal Bar’, private sleep chambers, and seats facing the airport tarmac.

The big question: What’s the cost?



Here’s what we know – and what we don’t.

* Buffet cost: The official pricing for the buffet and dining options has not been publicly released. Typically, in premium lounges like this, the food and non-alcoholic drinks are complimentary for those eligible for entry.

* Extra charges: Some premium alcoholic beverages or special services might cost extra, which is standard practice.

* Paid entry: Crucially, there is no announced option yet for paying to enter if you’re not eligible through your ticket or frequent flyer status. Access is strictly based on the premium criteria listed above.

What this means for travellers



This lounge is a clear sign of Air India’s plan to win back high-end travellers. As aviation expert Ajay Awtaney of Live From A Lounge noted, this Delhi flagship is just the start, with more lounges planned across India and globally.

For eligible passengers, it transforms the wait before a long flight into an experience with proper dining, relaxation and personalised service. For everyone else, it sets a new benchmark for what to expect from the carrier as it continues its ambitious transformation.

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