The long-awaited merger of the two major airlines, Vistara into Air India is now happening. This is indeed a very significant step for the Indian aviation sector.  

Following the Indian government’s approval to Singapore Airlines for foreign direct investment, which was a very crucial step, the airlines announced that Vistara will continue to function till November 11. The merger is a great advantage that will strengthen both airlines, highlighting the importance of international partnerships in the growth of Indian aviation industry.  

Vistara will merge into Air India on September 12, 2024. Here’s a look at how the merger will lead to changes in customer services, flight schedules and other functions of the airline. 

Will Vistara stop taking the Bookings? 

Already Booked Flights- There will be no impact on the reservations if a flight booking with Vistara is on or before November 11. You don’t need to take any action as the flight will take its course as scheduled originally.  

New Bookings- Following September 3, to book any flight for the date after 11 November, you need to use Air India’s booking systems. Vistara will stop accepting new bookings for dates post November 11.  

Bookings Post-November 11- Air India will take over the operating flights of Vistara bookings, scheduled after November 11.  

Vistara Club Loyalty Programs 

After the merger is finalized, Club Vistara will be integrated into Air India’s Flying Returns program. This will ensure no loss transition of Vistara’s Loyalty points to Flying Returns. Air India will allow you to redeem your points and continue earning. Further details: 

• All Vistara Club’s accounts will be transitioned into Flying Returns without any loss of value. 

• Those who have accounts in both loyalty programs can link them through Vistara’s website. 

• The accounts will be automatically merged, if you will not link them. It will only occur if the key identifications and contact details are consistent in both the accounts. 

• If there are any sort of mismatches, a new Flying Returns account will be issued, and the points from Club Vistara will be transferred to it.  

• If you end up with multiple accounts following the merger, you will have the option to consolidate them into one.  

Vistara Airport Lounge 

If anyone has already purchased the Vistara’s lounge access for trips scheduled before November 11, 2024, there will be no change to the access. However, Air India will handle lounge access for flights after November 11, 2024. If there’s a purchase of lounge for the flights, beyond November 11, Vistara will refund the original lounge access amount.  

Vistara’s Co-Branded Cards 

After the merger, Vistara’s co-branded credit cards will remain valid with Air India. Although you can still use the cards, the precise Vistara awards or bonuses may vary.  

Since the benefits may change, it is important to stay informed about potential modifications to their card benefits, following the merger. Cardholders can get in touch with their banks.