Vistara clears flight path, likely to take off next month

Tata-Singapore Airlines-backed full-service carrier Vistara will soon begin commercial operations after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation granted it the air operator’s permit on Monday.

Tata-Singapore Airlines-backed full-service carrier, Vistara, will soon begin commercial operations after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) granted it the air operator’s permit (AOP) on Monday.

“The AOP is a significant milestone as it is the final step in a highly technical and complex compliance process,” the airline said in a statement.

The New Delhi-headquartered airline, a 51:49 joint venture between Tata Sons and SIA, will have a fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft. It received the first delivery on September 25 and plans to increase its fleet to 20 aircraft by the end of the fourth year of operation.

The airline could launch operations by early January, said Kapil Kaul, South Asia CEO of aviation consultancy CAPA.

“Vistara’s entry has been eagerly awaited. Considering Tata Group and SIA’s legendary hospitality standards and service excellence, the airline would set new standards for Indian aviation,” said Rajji Rai, chairman, Swift Travels.

“Receiving the AOP is a key milestone for Vistara. We are all looking forward to the first flight with excitement,” said Prasad Menon, chairman, Vistara.

“I am delighted that we have cleared the final requirement,” said Phee Teik Yeoh, CEO, Vistara. “All our energies now are going to be concentrated towards fulfilling the Vistara brand promise. Our focus on customer service excellence coupled with unique product offerings will ensure seamless travel experience to our customers.”

Vistara’s entry could likely result in a price war in the domestic aviation market.