On Monday, November 11, 2024, Vistara, the country’s first premium airline, will operate its final flight before merging with Air India on Tuesday, November 12.
Vistara was launched in 2015 through a joint venture between Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, with its first flight between Delhi and Mumbai.
Air India Gears Up to Compete with Indigo
This merger will make Air India the country’s only full-service carrier, increasing its market share on international routes from 27% to 54%.
While Indigo currently dominates the Indian aviation market, Air India is strengthening its position through this merger.
Post-merger, Air India’s fleet size will grow from 144 to 214 aircraft. Additionally, Air India’s low-cost carrier, Air India Express, has a fleet of 90 aircraft,
and the company has placed an order for 470 new planes from Boeing and Airbus, expected to start arriving soon.
Vistara’s Legacy of 6.5 Crore Passengers
Since 2015, Vistara has flown over 6.5 crore passengers to over 50 domestic and international destinations, including direct flights to 12 countries.
With a fleet of 70 aircraft, Vistara will conclude operations under its brand name on November 11, marking the end of an era.
Services and Loyalty Program to Continue
Despite the merger, Vistara’s name will remain, though its flight code will change to align with Air India’s, with “AI 2” as a prefix.
About 2.5 lakh Vistara tickets have been transferred to Air India, which has assured passengers they will continue to enjoy Vistara’s in-flight services, including meals and products.
The merger will also combine Vistara’s loyalty program with Air India’s Maharaja Club, allowing Club Vistara members to join Air India’s Flying Returns program.
The combined airline will operate 90 domestic and international routes and expand access to 800 destinations through codeshare and interline partnerships.
