The final step for Vistara’s merger into Air India has been cleared, with approval for Singapore Airlines to hold a 25.1% stake in Air India, which will also parent Air India Express. This approval paves the way for Vistara’s merger into Air India, along with AIX Connect (formerly AirAsia India) merging into Air India Express, a fully owned subsidiary of Air India. This development also removes Talace Pvt. Ltd., the Tata Sons entity initially formed to bid for Air India, from the process.
As a result, Vistara will cease to exist from November 12, 2024, and will stop taking bookings for flights beyond November 11, 2024, starting next week (September 3). This transition may cause concern among passengers who have booked flights with Vistara or plan to travel during the busy December period. Notably, Vistara and Air India are scheduling this transition after the peak Diwali season, deviating from the usual IATA seasonal cutoffs.
Communication to passengers and employees has already begun, following the completion of the final formalities. Vistara’s social media accounts have announced the upcoming changes, and emails are being sent in batches to loyalty members and passengers to inform them of the shift. If you are a frequent flyer with Vistara, here are seven essential points you need to know about your bookings and loyalty points:
Is Vistara shutting down?
No, Vistara is not shutting down, but it will cease to exist as a standalone brand. Vistara will merge into Air India, with its planes, employees, and routes integrated into Air India’s operations. However, the aircraft will continue to display Vistara’s livery until they are repainted, and the IATA code “UK” will be retired.
Last flight on November 11
Vistara will operate its final flight on November 11, 2024. The transfer of planes and personnel to Air India will begin even before this date. After November 11, the Vistara brand, IATA code, and operations will be fully retired.
Also Read: Vistara to End Operations in November as Air India Merger Receives Approval
What if I need to book a flight with Vistara after November 12?
Flights on the Vistara network will continue to operate, but they will now carry Air India flight numbers and the “AI” prefix. Starting September 3, these flights will be available for booking through the Air India website. Vistara’s crew will continue to operate these flights under Air India until early 2025, though service levels, including meals, will follow Air India’s policies.
What happens to loyalty members?
Vistara has already started merging its loyalty program with Air India’s “Flying Returns” program. Loyalty members are encouraged to merge their accounts, with points being transferred on a one-to-one basis from Vistara’s “Club Vistara” to Flying Returns.
What if my flight is already booked?
If you have already booked a flight with Vistara, you will not be affected. Passengers flying between now and November 12 may see changes in their flight details, which the airline will communicate. Those flying after November 12 will experience changes, and the airline will notify passengers accordingly. To ensure you receive updates, make sure your contact details are current with the airline.
Will there be an impact on service if my Vistara flight operates as Air India?
Currently, the airlines have assured that most flights currently operating as Vistara will continue with the same planes and crew until early 2025. However, as the merger progresses, changes could occur due to operational requirements, such as aircraft checks or rebranding. This might impact services, particularly for Premium Economy passengers, as only a few Air India aircraft offer this service compared to Vistara’s fleet.
Where can I experience Vistara one last time?
Vistara has built a loyal following over the years. Passengers can still experience a Vistara flight on its network until November 11. However, it’s advisable to book soon, as the gradual switchover to Air India will lead to changes in sectors, aircraft, and crew assignments. A gap between booking and travel dates could result in a shift to Air India service, even if the aircraft and crew originally belonged to Vistara.