Vistara set to fly crowded Indian skies

Latecomer faces challenges in making a difference

By Neelam Mathews / December 16, 2014

Tata-Singapore Airlines-owned domestic carrier Vistara has finally received its Air Operator Permit (AOP) from the regulatory authority, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) after numerous delays.

Vistara set to fly.

With more than 70% of the Indian domestic market flooded with budget seats, Vistara is entering the market as a full service carrier. 

 

The AOP will enable the carrier to start commercial operations in India. Vistara is headquartered in Delhi and has two A320s parked there. Operations can start once it gets its slots. 

The carrier expects to introduce two to three more aircraft by March 2015. AirAsia India, another startup this year has just two A320s following its launch six months back.

With more than 70% of the Indian domestic market flooded with budget seats, Vistara is entering the market as a full service carrier. 

Prasad Menon, chairman, Vistara, said in a statement, “We are aware of the expectations we have to live up to and look forward to shaping a success story in Indian Aviation.”

Phee Teik Yeoh, CEO, Vistara, said all energies “are going to be concentrated towards fulfilling the Vistara brand promise.”

In a market where there is little differentiation left between budget and full service carriers, Vistara as a late comer, will face challenges as budget IndiGo has been working hard on increasing frequencies on major routes.

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