‘Sky Isn’t the Limit, It’s Just the Beginning’: Vistara Bids Farewell Ahead of Air India Merger

In an emotional farewell message on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Vistara Airlines announced its final goodbye as it ceases operations ahead of its merger with Air India. The airline shared a heartfelt message, marking the end of its journey under the Vistara brand but hinting at new beginnings as part of Air India.

Social Media Farewell: ‘To Limited Possibilities’

Vistara’s post on X read: “As the plane ascends, so do our dreams; let’s glide toward the future, where the sky isn’t the limit, but just the beginning.” The airline also included a tag, “to limited possibilities,” signifying its transition into the newly formed entity under Air India.

The airline announced that from September 2024, customers would no longer be able to book flights with Vistara for travel dates starting from November 12, 2024. This gradual phasing out of operations will continue as part of the integration process with Air India.

Merger with Air India: Deal Finalized

The merger between Vistara and Air India was initially announced in November 2022. Under the agreement, Singapore Airlines will hold a 25.1% stake in the merged airline, forming a more robust entity with expanded capabilities and a broader network.

Vistara CEO Vinod Kannan highlighted that the merger aims to offer passengers enhanced options and improved travel experiences. The integration will leverage the combined fleet and resources of both airlines to provide better connectivity and service.

Air India CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson commented on the efforts made for a smooth transition: “Cross-functional teams from Air India and Vistara have been working together for many months to make the transition of aircraft, flying crew, ground-based colleagues, and, most importantly, our valued customers, into the new Air India as seamless as possible.”

Passengers shared emotional farewells and fond memories of flying with Vistara. One passenger reported that the crew of one of Vistara’s final flights played the iconic Bollywood song “Kal Ho Na Ho” after landing, as a sentimental tribute marking the end of an era for the airline.