The merger process between Air India and Vistara is gaining momentum, significant developments are underway in the integration of their respective loyalty programmes.
Club Vistara, the loyalty programme of Vistara, is set to merge with Air India’s Flying Returns programme, marking a significant step towards streamlining operations and enhancing customer benefits. The proposed merger, which awaits foreign direct investment and regulatory approvals, is poised to strengthen the multi-hub strategy of the Singapore Airlines Group, which owns Vistara. Upon completion, the merger will position the Air India group as India’s largest international carrier, with an extensive network connecting five continents. Tata Sons, the parent company of Vistara, is awaiting final approval from the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), expected to be granted this month. With the Competition Commission of India already endorsing the merger in September 2023, NCLT approval will pave the way for the integration of networks, human resources, and fleet deployments.
Key details of the integration include the assignment of tier status based on cumulative points from both programmes. Passengers will retain their current Club Vistara tier status or may be upgraded based on their cumulative points. Additionally, all Club Vistara points and tier points will be transferred to the Flying Returns programme at a 1:1 ratio, ensuring continuity for members. Furthermore, future bookings using Club Vistara points and complimentary flight ticket vouchers will be seamlessly transferred to Flying Returns, with revised flight details provided post-migration. Unutilised vouchers, including One-Class Upgrade vouchers and Complimentary Flight Ticket vouchers, will retain their existing validity and usage terms under the Flying Returns programme.
With the integration of Club Vistara into Flying Returns, passengers can expect enhanced benefits, streamlined processes, and a unified loyalty experience. As Tata Sons aims to complete the merger and operate Air India and Vistara as a single entity by the end of the year, the consolidation of loyalty programmes marks a significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of India’s aviation sector.
On Wednesday, the Singapore Airlines Group announced its support for the proposed merger between Air India and Vistara, highlighting its potential to strengthen the airline’s multi-hub strategy and bolster its presence in the rapidly expanding Indian aviation market. Once finalised, the merger is poised to elevate the Air India group to become India’s largest international carrier, facilitating connectivity across five continents.
