Vistara and Air India Merger: 5 Key Changes Passengers Must Know!

As Vistara merges with Air India in November 2024, passengers must verify their bookings, check ticket changes, and be aware of how the merger affects flight schedules, baggage policies, and exclusive services. Learn the five essential steps to ensure smooth travel.

Vistara and Air India Merger

As Vistara merges with Air India starting November 12, 2024, passengers who have booked flights with Vistara must follow essential steps to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s what you need to know about the changes and what to expect post-merger, including details on ticket verification, flight changes, and more.

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

Five Essential Steps for Vistara Passengers

1. Verify Your Booking

All Vistara flights scheduled for travel on or after November 12, 2024, will be operated by Air India. To stay informed about any changes, passengers should verify their booking details on the Air India website or mobile app by entering their PNR number and last name.

This will help ensure they are updated on any flight schedule adjustments or aircraft changes. Remember, check-in for these flights will be at the Air India counters at respective airports.

2. New PNR and E-Ticket

While your PNR number will remain the same, Vistara-issued tickets will be replaced by new ones from Air India. This new e-ticket will come with a different number, so it’s important to keep both the original and new ticket records handy to avoid any issues during travel.

3. Flight Operations and Notifications

Flight schedules are expected to remain mostly consistent after the merger. However, in case of any changes, Air India will notify customers via email or SMS. It’s also advisable to regularly check your flight status on the Air India website for any last-minute updates.

4. Baggage and Lounge Access

For passengers who have purchased excess baggage with their Vistara booking, those purchases will be carried over to the new Air India flights. However, services like lounge access and other exclusive benefits may not apply on Air India-operated flights.

If you’ve purchased these services with your Vistara booking, Vistara will process refunds where applicable.

5. Rescheduling and Cancellations

If you need to reschedule or cancel your flight, the policies will depend on which airline operates the flight. Ensure you check with Air India’s customer care team to understand the process and any fees involved.

Retaining the Vistara Experience for Some Time

Despite the merger, passengers booked on Vistara flights will continue to enjoy the Vistara experience until at least mid-2025, as the Tatas have decided to retain Vistara’s aircraft and crew during this period. This will give passengers some familiarity while Air India’s older fleet undergoes a revamp.

Air India’s Commitment to a Seamless Transition

Air India is working to ensure a smooth transition for Vistara passengers. While the airline’s fleet is being modernized, they are committed to maintaining the high standards of service that Vistara passengers have come to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will my flight be delayed or canceled due to the merger? Air India is working to minimize disruptions. However, it’s always a good idea to check your flight status regularly.

2. What will happen to my Vistara frequent flyer program membership? Air India will announce details about the integration of Vistara’s frequent flyer program in due course.

3. Can I still use my Vistara lounge access after the merger? Lounge access may not be valid for Air India-operated flights. Refunds will be processed for any unused lounge access.

What’s Next for Air India and Vistara?

The merger between Vistara and Air India marks a significant change in India’s aviation industry. While Air India is gradually modernizing its fleet, the integration of Vistara’s service quality is expected to enhance the overall flying experience.

However, as both airlines work through this transition, passengers are encouraged to stay updated on their bookings and follow the necessary steps to avoid any travel disruptions.

This merger is a step towards creating a more unified and seamless air travel experience in India, and passengers can expect further improvements in the months to come.

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Manish Khandelwal
Manish Khandelwal

Manish Khandelwal, a travel-tech enthusiast with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Travelobiz.com, he's passionate about writing.

Articles: 6968

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