Air India, now led by the Tata Group, is preparing to open its first premium lounge at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. According to industry sources, the new lounge will debut in the coming weeks and marks the beginning of a wider push to elevate the airline’s ground service standards. This move aligns with Air India’s ongoing transformation and its goal of delivering a refined travel experience.
The Delhi lounge, located at Terminal 3, is designed to feature elegant interiors, curated guest experiences, and upgraded service facilities. Sources indicate that the lounge will introduce a fresh standard of comfort tailored to premium travellers. As the airline expands its fleet with new aircraft and updated inflight products, improving the on-ground experience has become a strategic priority.
Similar premium lounges are expected to follow in Mumbai and Bengaluru, with phased rollouts scheduled over the next year. These additions form part of Air India’s broader service revitalisation plan. While the airline did not comment officially, sources emphasised that this initiative is central to offering passengers a seamless premium journey from ground to air.
To create these lounges, Air India has partnered with global hospitality design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA). The firm is also assisting in the refurbishment of Air India’s existing lounge at New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport. Their involvement aims to maintain design consistency across the airline’s international footprint.
The upcoming Delhi lounge will incorporate a modern aesthetic with luxurious furnishings, warm lighting, and artwork reflecting India’s cultural richness. The concept is aligned with Air India’s refreshed brand identity, combining Indian hospitality with global standards. A carefully curated food and beverage selection will further elevate the travel experience.
Looking ahead, Air India plans to extend its premium lounge network to major international hubs. New facilities are being conceptualised for destinations such as San Francisco, New York, and key European airports. These expansions support the airline’s long-term goal of enhancing customer experience across its long-haul and ultra-long-haul routes.