New Delhi: The anticipated merger of Vistara and Air India is set to be finalized on November 12, following a key development where Singapore Airlines (SIA) announced approval from the Indian government for foreign direct investment (FDI) in the merger process.
From September 3, 2024, customers will be unable to book Vistara flights for travel on or after November 12, 2024, as Vistara aircraft will then operate under the Air India brand.
Vistara will maintain regular flight operations until November 11, 2024.
Both airlines are dedicated to providing smooth communication and support for customers during this transition, with FAQs available on Vistara’s website.
Vinod Kannan, CEO of Vistara, stated that the merger will provide customers with more options, a larger fleet, and an improved travel experience.
Announced first in November 2022, the merger will form one of the largest airline groups globally by uniting the strengths of these two aviation industry giants.
The merger is a strategic step to strengthen Air India’s global market position, offering a wider network and improved services.
With the Indian government’s approval, Singapore Airlines will obtain a 25.1% stake in the expanded Air India, owned by Tata Group. Vistara, a joint venture between Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, will merge into Air India, finalizing the union by year’s end.
Singapore Airlines, in its regulatory filing to the Singapore Stock Exchange, stated, “The FDI approval, along with anti-trust, merger control clearances, and other governmental and regulatory approvals received thus far, marks a significant step towards completing the proposed merger.”
