Best airport lounge access: Top 5 credit cards in India, fees & features

By Vivek Dubey

CNBC-TV18.com

Published Nov 22, 2023

Lounge Access Cutbacks

Banks like HDFC, Axis, and ICICI have reduced lounge access privileges, affecting many credit cardholders.

Steady Lounge USE

Despite changes, Dreamfolks reports a steady use of lounge services in Q3 2023.

Surge in Costs

Lounge access costs have surged, precipitating these cutbacks, as per industry experts.

Financial Strain

Lounge access costs have surged, precipitating these cutbacks, as per industry experts.

1

SBI Elite Card

Offers six international and eight domestic lounge visits, plus other benefits.

Fees: ₹4,999/year

2

HDFC Diners Club Card

Provides 12 lounge visits and complimentary memberships.

Fees: ₹2,500/year (waivable)

3

Axis Bank Select Card

Grants six international and eight domestic lounge visits, with additional perks.

Fees: ₹3,000/year

4

SBI Elite Card

Allows four international and eight domestic lounge visits, with milestone benefits.

Fees: ₹2,999/year (waivable)

5

YES FIRST Preferred Card

Offers four international and eight domestic lounge visits, and other rewards.

Fees: ₹999/year (waivable)

Product Cost Impact

Lounge access costs rose from 0.10% to 0.25% of the product cost, compelling benefit adjustments.