Vistara will operate its last flight under its brand on November 11, as the full-service carrier’s operations will be unified with Air India starting November 12. The government has approved the foreign direct investment by Singapore Airlines, facilitating the Air India-Vistara merger.
Vistara, a joint venture between Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, will have its aircraft operated by Air India after the merger. Tata Group also owns Air India.
“Starting September 3, 2024, customers will progressively no longer be able to make bookings with Vistara for travel on or after November 12, 2024,” Vistara announced in a release on Friday. Bookings for routes operated by Vistara aircraft will be redirected to Air India’s website.
The merger, announced in November 2022, will result in Singapore Airlines holding a 25.1 per cent stake in Air India. Vistara CEO Vinod Kannan emphasized that the merger aims to offer passengers more choice with a larger fleet and wider network, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Air India CEO and MD Campbell Wilson highlighted the collaborative efforts of cross-functional teams from both airlines to ensure a seamless transition for aircraft, crew, ground staff, and customers into the new Air India.
In a separate release, Air India welcomed the Union Cabinet’s approval for the foreign direct investment by Singapore Airlines, calling it an important milestone in the merger process and the broader transformation of the Air India Group.
(With inputs from PTI)