Air India building's high-flying days with a legacy changeover in order

India's first escalator, its shortest elevator, a terror attack, a rescue operation, the building's seen a lot

The Maharashtra government is reportedly set to become the new owner of the iconic Air India building in Mumbai, and is expected to turn it into an extension of the Mantralaya (secretariate). According to news reports, AI Assets Holding Ltd, which owns the building, has ‘in principle’ agreed to the state’s offer of Rs 1,600 crore.

Located at Nariman Point, the 23-storey tower has defined the Mumbai skyline for decades. Designed by American architect John Burgee, it was completed in 1973 and instantly became one of the most recognisable buildings of Mumbai (then Bombay).

“It was way ahead of its