Air India and Vistara are making significant strides as they prepare for their much-anticipated merger, with a focus on ensuring a seamless transition for passengers, crew, and loyalty program members. As the two airlines join forces under the broader Tata Group umbrella, this consolidation will create one of the largest airline networks in India, with extensive international reach.
One of the key aspects of the merger is the transfer of passenger reservations. Both airlines are working closely to integrate their booking systems to ensure that passengers with pre-existing reservations on either carrier are not affected by the merger. All tickets booked with Vistara will be honored by Air India post-merger, and customers will be informed of any operational changes well in advance. The integration of customer service channels is also being streamlined to provide a unified experience.For the crew of both airlines, the merger will bring together Vistara’s highly regarded service standards with Air India’s long-standing operational expertise. Air India has already started cross-training its staff to ensure a consistent in-flight experience across the merged entity. The combined workforce will create a larger talent pool, enhancing the airline’s operational capabilities, particularly for international routes where crew expertise and training are crucial.One of the most anticipated changes is the launch of the new loyalty program, the ‘Maharaja Club,’ which will replace Vistara’s Club Vistara and Air India’s Flying Returns. The Maharaja Club promises to offer expanded benefits, such as a wider array of earning and redemption opportunities on both domestic and international flights. Members of both existing programs will have their points and tier statuses transferred automatically, with no loss in value. The combined network of destinations, partnerships with global airlines, and a revamped tier system will give frequent flyers access to more rewards and perks than before.As part of the merger process, Vistara will be rebranded, with its distinct purple and gold branding being phased out to align with Air India’s signature red and white color scheme. However, the merged airline is expected to retain elements of Vistara’s premium offerings, particularly in business class, where Vistara has set a high bar for service.For passengers, this merger brings exciting opportunities, including access to more international destinations, a larger fleet of modern aircraft, and improved connectivity. The new Air India aims to leverage the best of both airlines, combining Vistara’s modern approach with Air India’s rich legacy. The integration is being carefully managed to ensure minimal disruption and a seamless transition for customers and crew alike, setting the stage for the new phase of Indian aviation under the Maharaja Club.
