Air India announcement dated 21 October 2026 (Gurugram).
What was announced
Air India and Standard Chartered have agreed a partnership that links the bank’s international banking and wealth services with Air India’s Maharaja Club loyalty programme. The airline says the offer will be available in the coming weeks. It did not give a launch date.
Under the deal, Standard Chartered will give Maharaja Club Gold or Silver status to eligible “Affluent Global Indian” clients in Singapore and the UAE. Air India did not publish the eligibility criteria.
What the status includes
According to the release, Maharaja Club status brings extra baggage allowance, priority check-in and boarding, lounge access, upgrade vouchers and bonus Maharaja Points. Benefits increase from Silver to Gold.
Gold members also get Star Alliance Gold status. The release says this gives access to more than 1,000 lounges worldwide, priority airport services and extra baggage across the 25 other Star Alliance airlines. On eligible Air India journeys, the listed benefits include complimentary seat selection and fee waivers, subject to programme terms.
Clients who qualify will also get relationship-manager support and wealth services from the bank.
Why it matters
- For travellers: Indian professionals based in Singapore or the UAE who already bank with Standard Chartered could get elite status without first earning it through flying. Ask the bank whether you qualify once the offer goes live.
- For agents and corporate travel desks: Watch for clients flying Air India on Singapore and Gulf routes who suddenly hold status. Lounge access and baggage benefits can change how you price and plan their trips.
- Context: Air India says Maharaja Points can be earned and redeemed on Air India and Air India Express flights to and from 104 destinations, as well as on the 25 other Star Alliance member airlines.