Air India incorporates Vistara and becomes bigger and bigger. Thus disappears India's 'top-of-the-line' airline
For almost 10 years (until the very recent developments affecting Air India in terms of fleet and cabins), with [...]
Air India
Star Alliance
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India
For nearly 10 years (up to the very recent developments that have touched Air India in terms of fleet and cabin), with its Dreamliners in three classes of service (Business, Premium Economy and Economy) and upper class configured 1-2-1, as well as its A321neo and A320neo also in three classes of service, Vistara has been the 'top of the line' among Indian airlines.
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Founded as A joint venture between the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, revolutionized for the better the way people travel in India and to and from India in years when the flag carrier's product was far from up to international standards: old-fashioned aircraft but mostly dated, worn-out, and outdated interiors (with Long Range Business 2-2-2 on Boeing 787s and even 2-3-2 on some Boeing 777-300ERs and Boeing 777-200LRs).
Vistara's fleet grew rapidly, reaching 70 airplanes in a very few years, among which are. 7 Boeing 787-9, 10 Airbus A321neo and 53 A320neo, with an average aircraft age of just 3.5 years i.e., among the lowest in the world.
The network has also expanded by making Vistara the second largest company (behind Indigo) by domestic market share, with over 9%. Over the long haul, its Dreamliners fly to Paris, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Bangkok and London, all routes also operated by Air India.
Subsequent to theTata Group's acquisition of Air India in January 2022, in November of that year the merger between the two companions was announcede, to be implemented by mid-2025. Since then, Vistara's fleet and destinations have continued to grow, however, until August 30, it was officially announced that the company will cease to operate as an independent brand as of November 12, when all its activities are merged into Air India.
Passengers who ae booked Vistara to fly after Nov. 11 will receive new Air India tickets, but with the same PNR, will be reimbursed for expenses incurred for increased baggage allowance and lounge access. As of September 3, Vistara is not accepting new reservations anyway.
Singapore Airlines, thanks to a $250 million capital injection (and considering the stake already owned in Vistara). Will become a 25.1% shareholder in the 'new' Air India.
