The integration of Air India and Vistara has taken a significant step forward with its first combined flight operation, marking a new chapter in Indian aviation. This inaugural flight, which also served as the first international operation under the unified entity, departed from Doha to Mumbai late Monday night. Flight AI2286 took off at approximately 10:07 PM local time and was scheduled to arrive in Mumbai early Tuesday morning, completing its nearly three-hour journey.
On the domestic front, the integrated airline commenced operations with its first scheduled flight from Mumbai to Delhi, designated as AI2984. This flight, operated with an A320 aircraft, departed at around 1:30 AM on Tuesday, symbolizing the beginning of a new operational era for the merged airlines. To distinguish flights in the post-merger phase, the airline has introduced a new flight code format, “AI2XXX,” for what were previously Vistara-operated services. This move aims to ensure clarity for passengers when booking flights under the merged entity.
The merger of Air India and Vistara represents a pivotal moment in India’s aviation industry, bringing together two key players under the umbrella of the Tata Group. Vistara, a joint venture between the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, has been gradually phasing out standalone operations. Singapore Airlines has solidified its place in the new structure by acquiring a 25.1% stake in the recently merged Air India-Vistara company.
This transition has been meticulously planned over the past year. It was initially announced in November 2022 that customers would no longer be able to book flights with Vistara for travel dates beyond November 12, 2024. Teams from both airlines have collaborated extensively to streamline the integration process, addressing the complexities of combining aircraft, flight crews, ground operations, and customer service systems. According to Air India’s CEO and Managing Director, Campbell Wilson, the goal has been to ensure a seamless experience for customers while creating a unified, enhanced airline under the Air India name.
