Vistara, known for its premium service and loyal customer base, took its last flight on November 11 before merging with Air India. This strategic move by the Tata Group consolidates two industry giants, positioning Air India as the country’s only full-service carrier. Launched as a joint venture between Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, Vistara has quickly built a reputation for its exceptional on-board experience. Following the merger, Singapore Airlines will hold a 25.1% stake in the newly enlarged Air India.

The merger affects more than 115,000 passengers holding Vistara tickets for future trips, who will now fly under the air. India brand. While the Vistara name will disappear, Tata Group assures customers that the famous ‘Vistara Experience’ will be maintained within Air India services.

As the anchor of the Tata group in the aviation industry grows, let’s take a look at the airline’s full timeline:

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1932: the beginnings

• JRD Tata creates Tata Airlines, India’s first airline
• Starts with a single-engine de Havilland Puss Moth, carrying mail and passengers between Karachi and Bombay.

1946

• Tata Airlines becomes Air India
• In 1953, the Indian government acquired a 49% stake, which later led to complete nationalization.

2001

• The Tata Group and Singapore Airlines attempted to acquire a stake but were unsuccessful.

2013

• Partners with AirAsia Berhad to launch AirAsia India, a low-cost carrier carrier
• Partners with Singapore Airlines to launch Vistara, a full-service airline

2020

• Government decides to privatize Air India
• Tata Group submits offer including Air India Express

October 2021

• Tata group wins Air India bid
• Secures Air India, Air India Express and 50% of Air India SATS

January 2022

• Tata group acquires Air India at a cost of Rs 18,000 crore
• Begins to merge flight operations under Air India

November 2022

• Son Tata secures remaining 16.33% stake in AirAsia India
• Proposed merger of AirAsia India with Air India Express

November 2023

• Tata announces merger with Vistara
• Employee evaluations completed by May 2024

August 2024

• Singapore Airlines investment approved
• S$360 million ($276 million) investment for merged carrier
• Vistara’s last flight is scheduled for November 11; Reservations end September 3
• Tickets booked for travel after November 12 transferred to Air India