Vistara To Cease Bookings From September 3, To Merge With Air India By November 12

TATA SIA Airlines Limited, operating under the brand name Vistara, announced on Friday its upcoming merger with Air India. The merger marks a significant shift in the Indian aviation landscape, with Vistara ceasing its independent operations later this year.

According to the company's statement, starting September 3, 2024, customers will gradually lose the ability to book flights with Vistara for travel scheduled on or after November 12, 2024.

However, Vistara will continue to operate and accept bookings as usual until November 11, 2024. Post-merger, all Vistara aircraft will be integrated into Air India's fleet, and future bookings for these routes will be redirected to Air India's website.

During the transition, both airlines have committed to providing consistent communication and support to ensure a seamless experience for their customers. Vistara's Chief Executive Officer, Vinod Kannan, expressed gratitude for the support received over the last decade.

He said that the merger aims to provide customers with more choices, a larger fleet, and an expanded network, all while enhancing the overall travel experience.

"We are excited about this new phase in our journey and look forward to welcoming our customers again soon-as Air India," Kannan stated.

Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India, highlighted the collaborative efforts of cross-functional teams from both airlines to ensure a smooth transition.

He noted, "The joint team looks forward to offering our guests an expanded network, additional flight options, an enhanced frequent flyer program, and the best of both antecedent airlines."

The merger process has been in the works for some time, with both companies securing the CAR (Civil Aviation Requirement) 145 approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on August 10, allowing them to integrate their aircraft line maintenance operations.

This approval marked a crucial step in aligning the operations of the two airlines as they move towards becoming a unified entity.

As the merger progresses, Vistara and Air India remain committed to delivering a world-class travel experience, with a renewed focus on serving their customers under the Air India brand.