By R. Suryamurthy
New Delhi, Mar 30: American Express on Monday announced the opening of its Centurion Lounge at Terminal 1 of Indira Gandhi International Airport, marking an expansion of its premium airport lounge network in India amid rising outbound and domestic travel demand.
The facility, part of the company’s global Centurion Lounge Collection, will be accessible to eligible card members from India and overseas, subject to capacity and access policies.
The move underscores the company’s strategy to strengthen its footprint in high-growth travel markets such as India, where premium travel services are seeing increased traction.
Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel, said the new lounge is aimed at enhancing the travel experience through a blend of global standards and local influences. “This new lounge in New Delhi combines the premium service, food and beverage offerings our lounges are known for with design elements that reflect local culture,” she said.
Sanjay Khanna, CEO and Country Manager for India at American Express, said the launch reflects evolving consumer expectations. “Today’s premium travellers seek comfort, efficiency and a seamless blend of global and local experiences,” he noted, adding that the lounge is designed to help card members “relax, recharge and travel with ease.”
The Delhi lounge incorporates Indian artistic traditions into its design, including bespoke artworks and installations inspired by batik techniques, alongside contributions from local artists. The space has been structured to balance work and leisure, with dedicated workstations as well as relaxation zones.
The company said the lounge also includes a separate section reserved for its highest-tier Centurion cardholders.
The lounge offers a curated food and beverage programme, including breakfast and lunch menus, live buffet counters and takeaway options for time-pressed travellers. A full-service bar with premium wines and spirits, as well as artisanal coffee, is part of the offering.
Other amenities include a quiet room, restrooms, and dedicated changing and nursing facilities, aligning with global standards for premium airport lounges.
American Express said its Global Lounge Collection now provides access to more than 1,550 lounges across 140 countries, including 32 Centurion Lounge locations. The company has also announced plans to open additional lounges at Newark Liberty International Airport in the United States and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol in the Netherlands.
Founded in 1850 and headquartered in New York, American Express continues to position its lounge network as a key differentiator in the competitive premium credit card and travel services market. (BVI)
