Air India-Vistara Merger: 5 Major Changes Passengers Need to Be Aware Of

As Vistara merges with Air India in November 2024, passengers need to be prepared for a few important changes. Here are five simple steps to ensure your travel goes smoothly:

1. Check Your Booking: Confirm your flight details to ensure nothing has changed.
2. Review Your Ticket: Look out for any updates to your ticket, such as flight numbers or seat assignments.
3. Monitor Flight Schedules: Keep an eye on your flight times, as the merger might affect schedules.
4. Understand Baggage Policies: Check if there are any changes to baggage allowances or fees.
5. Exclusive Services: Be aware of new or altered services, such as lounge access or loyalty programs.

By staying informed, you can ensure a hassle-free journey.

Starting November 12, 2024, Vistara will officially merge with Air India, and passengers with Vistara bookings should take a few important steps to ensure a smooth transition. First, verify your ticket details to make sure they are updated and valid under Air India’s system.

Be prepared for possible changes to flight schedules or numbers, so keep an eye out for any notifications from the airline.

It’s also a good idea to stay informed by following updates from Air India regarding additional requirements or changes. By staying prepared, you can ensure a hassle-free journey post-merger.

Vistara and Air India Merger Key Points

• Merger Date: November 12, 2024
• Flight Operations: All Vistara flights after November 12 will be operated by Air India.
• Aircraft: Vistara’s narrow-body planes will be used until mid-2025.
• Flight Numbers: Vistara flight numbers will change to Air India flight numbers.

5 Essential Steps for Vistara Passengers

Here’s a simplified guide to help you with the Vistara and Air India merger:

1. Verify Your Booking

All Vistara flights from November 12, 2024, onwards will be operated by Air India. To stay updated on any changes, check your booking details on the Air India website or app using your PNR number and last name. Make sure to check-in at the Air India counters at the airport.

2. New PNR and E-Ticket

While your PNR will stay the same, Vistara-issued tickets will be replaced with new Air India tickets, each with a new number. Keep both the old and new tickets handy to avoid any issues during your trip.

3. Flight Operations and Notifications

Most flight schedules should remain the same, but Air India will notify you of any changes via email or SMS. It’s a good idea to check your flight status regularly on the Air India website for any last-minute updates.

4. Baggage and Lounge Access

If you bought extra baggage with your Vistara booking, it will carry over to your new Air India flight. However, lounge access and other exclusive benefits may not be available on Air India flights. Vistara will refund any unused services where applicable.

5. Rescheduling and Cancellations

If you need to reschedule or cancel your flight, follow Air India’s policies and fees. Contact Air India’s customer care for more details about the process.

Retaining the Vistara Experience for Some Time

Even after the merger, passengers flying with Vistara will continue to enjoy the Vistara experience until at least mid-2025. The Tatas have decided to retain Vistara’s aircraft and crew during this period, giving passengers a sense of familiarity while Air India upgrades its older fleet.

From November 12, Vistara flight numbers will change — for example, UK 711 will become AI2-711. Air India is also working to revamp its wide-body fleet over the next two years.

Air India’s Commitment to a Seamless Transition

Air India is focused on making the transition smooth for Vistara passengers. While the fleet modernization is underway, Air India is committed to upholding the high standards of service that Vistara passengers are used to.

What’s Next for Air India and Vistara?

The merger between Vistara and Air India is a major shift in India’s aviation industry. Air India is modernizing its fleet, and Vistara’s high-quality service will be integrated to improve the overall flying experience.

During this transition, it’s important for passengers to stay informed about their bookings and take the necessary steps to avoid any travel issues.

This merger aims to create a more seamless air travel experience in India, with more improvements expected in the coming months.