Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Vistara Airlines will cease its operations under its current brand name on November 11, 2024. The airline’s services will be fully integrated with Air India starting from November 12, marking the completion of a merger that began almost two years ago.
Vistara, a joint venture between the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, is set to consolidate with Air India, which is also owned by the Tata Group. This strategic move is designed to streamline operations and enhance the travel experience for passengers. As part of this merger, Singapore Airlines will acquire a 25.1% stake in the newly unified Air India.
The merger has received approval from the central government, including the nod for foreign direct investment (FDI) by Singapore Airlines in Air India. This merger aligns with the Tata Group’s broader vision to create a more efficient and globally competitive airline under the Air India banner.
Beginning September 3, passengers will no longer be able to book flights with Vistara for travel beyond November 11. All flight operations managed by Vistara will be transitioned to Air India, and customers looking to book flights post-merger will be directed to Air India’s booking platforms.
In an official statement, Vistara announced, “Vistara will continue to take bookings and operate flights as usual until November 11, 2024.” Starting November 12, all Vistara aircraft, along with their crew, will be absorbed into Air India’s fleet. The routes previously operated by Vistara will also become part of Air India’s extensive network.
The merger was first announced in November 2022. Campbell Wilson, CEO and Managing Director of Air India, emphasized the importance of a smooth transition for both passengers and employees. “Cross-functional teams from Air India and Vistara have been working together for many months to ensure the seamless transition of aircraft, flying crew, ground-based colleagues, and, most importantly, our valued customers, into the new Air India,” Mr. Wilson stated.
For passengers who have already booked Vistara flights scheduled after November 12, the transition will be handled automatically. Although flight numbers will be updated to reflect Air India’s operations, the schedules, aircraft, and crews will largely remain unchanged until early 2025. To assist passengers during this period, both airlines have prepared a comprehensive set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
