Vistara, the premium airline jointly owned by the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, will operate its last flight today before officially merging with Air India.
From 13 November, Vistara flights will fall under the Air India Group umbrella, using the ‘AI2’ flight code, signifying the culmination of this strategic consolidation.
This merger will give Singapore Airlines a 25.1% stake in the newly structured Air India, a move that underscores its commitment to the Indian aviation sector.
Vistara was launched in 2015 as a joint venture, with Singapore Airlines holding 49% ownership and Tata Group controlling the majority at 51%.
Now, the integration with Air India signals a shift towards a unified full-service airline for Tata Group’s aviation arm, aimed at competing on a larger international scale.
Preserving The Vistara Experience
Tata Group assures passengers that as it integrates Vistara into Air India, the quality and standards associated with Vistara will continue.
An Air India spokesperson in a statement stated, “Though the legal entities and Air Operator Certificates will become one on 12 November, the Vistara experience will remain. Vistara aircraft, crew and service will continue to operate as before, but with AI2XXX flight numbers bookable via airindia.com.”
The merger follows more than a year of preparation by both airlines to integrate operations seamlessly, aiming to ensure continuity for customers and employees.
“We look forward to drawing upon the proud legacies and best practices of both airlines as we form a new airline group of which India can be proud,” the spokesperson added.
Upgrades & Investments For A Modernized Fleet
With this merger, Air India’s fleet is also undergoing extensive updates. They are adding new aircraft and refurbishing existing ones with modern interiors.
The renowned Vistara catering service will also extended to Air India, ensuring a consistent experience across the merged fleet.
This merger aligns with Tata Group’s vision of consolidating its aviation assets, which include not only Air India and Vistara but also a single low-cost airline, recently created by merging AirAsia India with Air India Express under the new brand AIX Connect.
Tata Group aims to provide a range of travel options, from budget-friendly to premium services, all under one roof.
Singapore Airlines Invests In Air India’s Growth
As a signal of confidence in Tata Group’s vision, Singapore Airlines has committed to investing an additional Rs 3,194.5 crore into Air India.
This investment highlights Singapore Airlines’ long-term outlook for the Indian aviation sector and strengthens the partnership with Tata Group, positioning Air India for further international expansion.
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