The integration between Air India and Vistara is getting all the closer to completion with several advancements done in the merging of its systems and customer reservations. Just a while back, during a media briefing, Satya Ramaswamy was Air India’s Chief Digital & Technology Officer who stated that now more than 140 systems had been successfully integrated, restoring both airlines’ normal functioning.

States Ramaswamy that of the 270,000 reservations originally handled by Vistara, an equal number has already been brought over into Air India’s system. Also accounted for in this integration are the 4.5 million Vistara loyalty program members being transferred to Air India’s loyalty platform to further aid in the experience offered to erstwhile Vistara customers.

“On the technology side, systems will be designed to provide a superior experience,” Ramaswamy said. Customers will benefit from an enhanced digital platform, and they will also retain those service qualities which have become synonymous with Vistara. “The best practices and service offerings from both airlines will come together to create a seamless customer experience,” he emphasized.

Besides this, the airline has also ensured that the operations routes and flight schedules of Vistara will not be affected by this merger. The flights will operate under the brand name Vistara with a code ‘AI2′, thereby preserving the identity of Vistara, as well as bringing it under the Air India umbrella.

When questioned further on the business’ expansion prospects into the future, Ramaswamy confidently replied that Air India intends to double its direct sales revenue within a few years. This ambitious target reflects the commitment of the airline to deepening its market presence in this rather competitive global aviation industry.

The merger would be an important milestone in the Indian aviation landscape, as Singapore Airlines would remain a 25.1% shareholder of the merged entity, and will be keen on getting this process right-an exercise made critical by customer centrality and efficiency in operations while ensuring a smooth transition.

This merger will change the face of the Indian aviation market’s competitive dynamics and will also enrich the travel experience for all the concerned stakeholders, thus making Air India a force to be reckoned with in the global arena of aviation.