As the merger between Air India and Vistara approaches, significant changes are on the horizon for both airlines. With the merger officially set for November 12, 2024, Air India has unveiled its plans to seamlessly integrate Vistara’s operations while retaining its unique service offerings for an interim period. This move aims to ensure that passengers continue to enjoy the quality and comfort associated with the Vistara brand during the transition.
One of the notable changes is the designation of Vistara aircraft for specific metro routes. Following the merger, Air India will operate these aircraft under a new four-digit code beginning with the digit “2,” allowing customers to easily identify them when booking flights on the Air India website. For example, a Vistara flight previously designated as UK 955 will now appear as AI 2955. This change is designed to simplify the booking process for passengers, who can expect the same level of service and operational standards they have come to appreciate from Vistara.In a joint advertisement and press release issued earlier in October 2024, both airlines confirmed that the Vistara experience would remain intact for several months following the merger. This includes maintaining the current routes and schedules operated by Vistara aircraft. Customers can anticipate the continuation of Vistara’s in-flight offerings, such as menus, cutlery, and overall service quality, ensuring a familiar experience even as the airline transitions to Air India’s brand.Additionally, the Vistara crew will transition to Air India, and they will be responsible for servicing the Vistara-branded flights. This will help maintain the high standards of service that passengers associate with Vistara, reinforcing customer confidence during the integration process. To further ease the transition, Vistara-liveried aircraft will display a sticker stating “Operated by Air India” until they undergo rebranding and painting, allowing passengers to easily identify the flights operated by Air India.The merger represents a strategic move for Air India, aimed at consolidating its position in the competitive aviation market. By retaining Vistara’s products and services, Air India seeks to capitalize on the positive reputation that Vistara has built over the years. The integration is expected to create a stronger airline, offering a broader range of destinations and enhanced services to customers.As the aviation industry continues to evolve, this merger symbolizes a significant shift in India’s airline landscape, with Air India poised to emerge as a more formidable player in both domestic and international markets. The airline’s commitment to preserving Vistara’s legacy during this transition reflects its focus on delivering an exceptional travel experience to its customers.Overall, the merger between Air India and Vistara marks a new chapter for both airlines, and the careful integration of their operations promises to enhance the travel experience for passengers. With continued service continuity and a dedication to quality, Air India aims to honor Vistara’s legacy while forging a path toward a brighter future in aviation.