IndiGo Airlines bid&nbsp;farewell to Vistara on Monday as the airline took to the skies for its last flight from Goa to Bengaluru on Sunday. Vistara is set to merge with Air India, which will end its nine-year journey.

In a heartfelt X post, IndiGo acknowledged the “unforgettable legacy” of Vistara, bidding farewell to its competitor airline.&nbsp;

The airline wrote, “As an unforgettable legacy takes its final flight, a new journey on the horizon awaits. Goodbye, @airvistara. Here’s #ToLimitlessPossibilities ahead.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vistara-ends-its-journey-says-sky-is-just-the-beginning-775248">Vistara ends its nine-year journey, says 'sky is just the beginning'</a>

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As an unforgettable legacy takes its final flight, a new journey on the horizon awaits. Goodbye, <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a>. Here’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ToLimitlessPossibilities?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ToLimitlessPossibilities</a> ahead. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/goIndiGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#goIndiGo</a> 
 
Video credits <a href="https://twitter.com/UtkarshThakkar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UtkarshThakkar</a> <a href="https://t.co/QAOlNzX5xm">pic.twitter.com/QAOlNzX5xm</a>
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E/status/1855961099985887533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Vistara Airlines responded to the tweet from its official handle saying, “Onward and upward! Here’s to the future and all the exciting possibilities it holds! #ToLimitlessPossibilities.”

Several social media users reacted to the post, praising the gesture.

A user wrote on X, “When your competitor praises you, that's when you know - you were DAMN GOOD!!”

“That's the spirit @IndiGo6E. Rivals in the market are always friends in the sky,” another commented.

“Loved this gesture,” a third said.

Many users on X also applauded the services of Vistara Airlines as they bid goodbye to the airline.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navys-hadr-operations-showcase-indias-growing-influence-775365">Indian Navy's HADR operations showcase India's growing influence</a>

“@airvistara had taken the services to different levels,” another person said praising Vistara airline.

Another user posted, "Farewell,&nbsp;@airvistara... you truly were the best of the Indian sky."

<h2>Vistara-Air India merger</h2>

Launched as a joint venture between Tata Sons (51 per cent) and Singapore Airlines (49 per cent) in 2015, Vistara marks the end of its journey as the Tata group decided to merge it with its other aviation venture Air India. The company has said the decision has been made to streamline its aviation assets.&nbsp;

Vistara fleet and routes will be incorporated into Air India, and Singapore Airlines will hold a 25.1 per cent stake in the merged airline, becoming India's largest international carrier.​

(With inputs from agencies)

IndiGo Airlines bid farewell to Vistara on Monday as the airline took to the skies for its last flight from Goa to Bengaluru on Sunday. Vistara is set to merge with Air India, which will end its nine-year journey.

IndiGo Airlines bid farewell to Vistara on Monday as the airline took to the skies for its last flight from Goa to Bengaluru on Sunday. Vistara is set to merge with Air India, which will end its nine-year journey. In a heartfelt X post, IndiGo acknowledged the “unforgettable legacy” of Vistara, bidding farewell to its competitor airline. The airline wrote, “As an unforgettable legacy takes its final flight, a new journey on the horizon awaits. Goodbye, @airvistara. Here’s #ToLimitlessPossibilities ahead.” Also read | Vistara ends its nine-year journey, says 'sky is just the beginning' As an unforgettable legacy takes its final flight, a new journey on the horizon awaits. Goodbye, @airvistara. Here’s #ToLimitlessPossibilities ahead. #goIndiGo Video credits @UtkarshThakkar pic.twitter.com/QAOlNzX5xm — IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) November 11, 2024 × Vistara Airlines responded to the tweet from its official handle saying, “Onward and upward! Here’s to the future and all the exciting possibilities it holds! #ToLimitlessPossibilities.” Several social media users reacted to the post, praising the gesture. A user wrote on X, “When your competitor praises you, that's when you know - you were DAMN GOOD!!” “That's the spirit @IndiGo6E. Rivals in the market are always friends in the sky,” another commented. “Loved this gesture,” a third said. Many users on X also applauded the services of Vistara Airlines as they bid goodbye to the airline. Also read | Indian Navy's HADR operations showcase India's growing influence “@airvistara had taken the services to different levels,” another person said praising Vistara airline. Another user posted, "Farewell, @airvistara... you truly were the best of the Indian sky." Vistara-Air India merger Launched as a joint venture between Tata Sons (51 per cent) and Singapore Airlines (49 per cent) in 2015, Vistara marks the end of its journey as the Tata group decided to merge it with its other aviation venture Air India. The company has said the decision has been made to streamline its aviation assets. Vistara fleet and routes will be incorporated into Air India, and Singapore Airlines will hold a 25.1 per cent stake in the merged airline, becoming India's largest international carrier. (With inputs from agencies)

IndiGo bids farewell to rival Vistara, social media applauds the gesture

A social media post by a journalist calling out Vistara Airlines has become the new point of discussion on the internet. A journalist named Aarti Tikoo Singh asked Vistara, a Tata Sons airline service, why their in-flight vegetarian foods are labelled as “Hindu meals, and chicken meals as “Muslim meals.”

Singh accused the airline of communalising food, through her X post.&nbsp;

“Who told you that all Hindus are vegetarian and all Muslims are non-vegetarian?” she asked the Indian full-service carrier. Singh accused Vistara of thrusting food choices on people as she asked, “Are you now going to communalise vegetables, chicken and passengers on a flight too?”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-social-media-policy-yogi-govt-to-offer-influencers-up-to-rs8-lakh-per-month-753914">UP social media policy: Yogi govt to offer influencers up to ₹8 lakh per month</a>

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Hello <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a>, why the hell is vegetarian meal called “Hindu meal” and chicken meal called “Muslim meal” on your flights? Who told you that all Hindus are vegetarian and all Muslims are non-vegetarian? Why are you thrusting food choices on people? Who authorised you to do… <a href="https://t.co/46w4avU7Vs">pic.twitter.com/46w4avU7Vs</a>
— Aarti Tikoo Singh (@AartiTikoo) <a href="https://twitter.com/AartiTikoo/status/1828362950026948702?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Singh said she was so shocked by Vistara’s pathetic behaviour that she booked both meal options and took a screenshot of her ticket from Srinagar to Jammu, which shows that she booked one “Hindu meal” and one “Moslem meal” for the short duration flight.

Soon the journalist’s post was flooded with comments with some asking the same question to the airline, while others explaining why the airline might have these “communal” labels.

<h2>What’s with airline food labels?</h2>

Several social media users informed Singh in the comments that airline meals have certain codes and these codes are not decided by a particular airline (in this case Vistara) but are standardised across the industry.&nbsp;

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) provides standardised meal codes to help airlines, catering services, and ground staff manage and communicate meal requirements efficiently and to ensure some uniformity across airlines.

“FYI in general aviation parlance, a Hindu Meal (HNML) is NOT necessarily a Veg meal - it could be a Non Veg meal that is not Halal,” wrote Sanjay Lazar, CEO of Avialaz Consultants. “Similarly a Moslem meal (MOML) is a Non Vegetarian meal that is HALAL,” he explained.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-auto-rikshaw-driver-in-ratnagiri-drugs-19-year-old-nursing-student-rapes-her-753809">Maharashtra: Autorickshaw driver in Ratnagiri drugs 19-year-old nursing student, rapes her</a>

Sanjiv Kapoor, the former CEO-designate of Jet Airways and an aviation veteran also shared his views on the incident and provided a similar explanation.&nbsp;

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These are standard international meal codes used globally across GDS-based airlines, not just by Vistara. However I do think IATA or whoever needs to update / modernize these outdated and at times somewhat puzzling meal codes. <a href="https://t.co/QLO9BlutZB">https://t.co/QLO9BlutZB</a>
— Sanjiv Kapoor (@TheSanjivKapoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSanjivKapoor/status/1828423789627015199?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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“These are standard international meal codes used globally across GDS-based airlines, not just by Vistara. However, I do think IATA or whoever needs to update/modernize these outdated and at times somewhat puzzling meal codes,” wrote Kapoor.

Meanwhile, Vistara’s website does not mention Hindu or Muslim meals. Instead, its extensive list of vegetarian options includes the “Vegetarian Vegan Meal (VGML)” which does not contain animal products, animal by-products, eggs or any dairy products, Vegetarian Jain Meal (VJML) which has no animal products, animal by-products, any root, or bulbous vegetables, and Vegetarian Lacto-ovo Meal (VLML) which may contain eggs and dairy.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A social media post by a journalist calling out Vistara Airlines has become the new point of discussion on the internet. A journalist named Aarti Tikoo Singh asked Vistara, a Tata Sons airline service, why their in-flight vegetarian foods are labelled as “Hindu meals, and chicken meals as “Muslim meals.

A social media post by a journalist calling out Vistara Airlines has become the new point of discussion on the internet. A journalist named Aarti Tikoo Singh asked Vistara, a Tata Sons airline service, why their in-flight vegetarian foods are labelled as “Hindu meals, and chicken meals as “Muslim meals.” Singh accused the airline of communalising food, through her X post. “Who told you that all Hindus are vegetarian and all Muslims are non-vegetarian?” she asked the Indian full-service carrier. Singh accused Vistara of thrusting food choices on people as she asked, “Are you now going to communalise vegetables, chicken and passengers on a flight too?” Also Read | UP social media policy: Yogi govt to offer influencers up to ₹8 lakh per month Hello @airvistara, why the hell is vegetarian meal called “Hindu meal” and chicken meal called “Muslim meal” on your flights? Who told you that all Hindus are vegetarian and all Muslims are non-vegetarian? Why are you thrusting food choices on people? Who authorised you to do… pic.twitter.com/46w4avU7Vs — Aarti Tikoo Singh (@AartiTikoo) August 27, 2024 × Singh said she was so shocked by Vistara’s pathetic behaviour that she booked both meal options and took a screenshot of her ticket from Srinagar to Jammu, which shows that she booked one “Hindu meal” and one “Moslem meal” for the short duration flight. Soon the journalist’s post was flooded with comments with some asking the same question to the airline, while others explaining why the airline might have these “communal” labels. What’s with airline food labels? Several social media users informed Singh in the comments that airline meals have certain codes and these codes are not decided by a particular airline (in this case Vistara) but are standardised across the industry. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) provides standardised meal codes to help airlines, catering services, and ground staff manage and communicate meal requirements efficiently and to ensure some uniformity across airlines. “FYI in general aviation parlance, a Hindu Meal (HNML) is NOT necessarily a Veg meal - it could be a Non Veg meal that is not Halal,” wrote Sanjay Lazar, CEO of Avialaz Consultants. “Similarly a Moslem meal (MOML) is a Non Vegetarian meal that is HALAL,” he explained. Also Read | Maharashtra: Autorickshaw driver in Ratnagiri drugs 19-year-old nursing student, rapes her Sanjiv Kapoor, the former CEO-designate of Jet Airways and an aviation veteran also shared his views on the incident and provided a similar explanation. These are standard international meal codes used globally across GDS-based airlines, not just by Vistara. However I do think IATA or whoever needs to update / modernize these outdated and at times somewhat puzzling meal codes. https://t.co/QLO9BlutZB — Sanjiv Kapoor (@TheSanjivKapoor) August 27, 2024 × “These are standard international meal codes used globally across GDS-based airlines, not just by Vistara. However, I do think IATA or whoever needs to update/modernize these outdated and at times somewhat puzzling meal codes,” wrote Kapoor. Meanwhile, Vistara’s website does not mention Hindu or Muslim meals. Instead, its extensive list of vegetarian options includes the “Vegetarian Vegan Meal (VGML)” which does not contain animal products, animal by-products, eggs or any dairy products, Vegetarian Jain Meal (VJML) which has no animal products, animal by-products, any root, or bulbous vegetables, and Vegetarian Lacto-ovo Meal (VLML) which may contain eggs and dairy. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian airline calls its vegetarian meals ‘Hindu’ and non-veg meals ‘Muslim’. Here's why

In the past two days, passengers travelling through Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru, India, have faced extensive delays and cancellations, with about 20 Vistara flights disrupted. <o:p></o:p>

According to reports, these disruptions, impacting flights both inbound and outbound, have resulted in several delays for travellers, lasting for six hours or more. <o:p></o:p>

There are indications that these disruptions are linked to an ongoing strike by Vistara pilots.<o:p></o:p>

A report by news agency TNN cited a frustrated passenger, sharing his ordeal on social media, who said that he was waiting since 6 PM on Monday for his flight, which finally departed at 8:25 AM the following day, after a major delay of over 14 hours. <o:p></o:p>

Reports suggest that passengers were even made to deboard during the night, only to recheck-in later. <o:p></o:p>

Other travellers complained about the lack of staff for communication and assistance during the crisis, leaving them stranded at the airport without adequate information.<o:p></o:p>

Responding to the situation, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed Vistara to furnish daily reports detailing flight disruptions. <o:p></o:p>

The airline has been instructed to ensure affected passengers receive necessary facilities such as advance information, refund options, and compensation. <o:p></o:p>

A spokesperson for Vistara , attributed the disruptions to various factors including unavailability of flight crew.<o:p></o:p>

To address the issue, Vistara has initiated measures such as temporarily reducing flight operations and deploying larger aircraft to optimise capacity and maintain connectivity across its network.<o:p></o:p>

The flight disruptions come as Vistara faces other major challenges, with reports saying that about 15 senior first officers have resigned from the airline, leading to the pilot shortage.<o:p></o:p>

These resignations follow discontent among pilots, particularly over proposed changes to pay structures and incentives.<o:p></o:p>

Sources reveal that the pilots who resigned had undergone training to operate wide-body Boeing 787 aircraft, but were not assigned flying duties for these planes.<o:p></o:p>

The airline, which operates over 300 flights daily, is currently navigating a challenging period marked by both crew shortages and internal discontent.<o:p></o:p>

In the past two days, passengers travelling through Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru, India, have faced extensive delays and cancellations, with about 20 Vistara flights disrupted.

In the past two days, passengers travelling through Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru, India, have faced extensive delays and cancellations, with about 20 Vistara flights disrupted. According to reports, these disruptions, impacting flights both inbound and outbound, have resulted in several delays for travellers, lasting for six hours or more. There are indications that these disruptions are linked to an ongoing strike by Vistara pilots. A report by news agency TNN cited a frustrated passenger, sharing his ordeal on social media, who said that he was waiting since 6 PM on Monday for his flight, which finally departed at 8:25 AM the following day, after a major delay of over 14 hours. Reports suggest that passengers were even made to deboard during the night, only to recheck-in later. Other travellers complained about the lack of staff for communication and assistance during the crisis, leaving them stranded at the airport without adequate information. Responding to the situation, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed Vistara to furnish daily reports detailing flight disruptions. The airline has been instructed to ensure affected passengers receive necessary facilities such as advance information, refund options, and compensation. A spokesperson for Vistara , attributed the disruptions to various factors including unavailability of flight crew. To address the issue, Vistara has initiated measures such as temporarily reducing flight operations and deploying larger aircraft to optimise capacity and maintain connectivity across its network. The flight disruptions come as Vistara faces other major challenges, with reports saying that about 15 senior first officers have resigned from the airline, leading to the pilot shortage. These resignations follow discontent among pilots, particularly over proposed changes to pay structures and incentives. Sources reveal that the pilots who resigned had undergone training to operate wide-body Boeing 787 aircraft, but were not assigned flying duties for these planes. The airline, which operates over 300 flights daily, is currently navigating a challenging period marked by both crew shortages and internal discontent.

Turbulence in the Skies: Vistara flights delayed and cancelled amid pilot crisis

In what comes as a miraculous escape, a two-year child aboard a&nbsp;Bengaluru-Delhi Vistara flight on Sunday (August 27) was saved after five doctors, present on the plane, worked together and managed to keep the kid alive. India's premier medical research university, All India Institute Of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and confirmed the incident.&nbsp;

The team of doctors (Dr Navdeep Kaur, Dr Damandeep Kaur, Dr Rishab Jain, Dr Oishika, Dr Avichala Taxax)&nbsp;was&nbsp;returning from an event organised by the Indian Society for Vascular and Interventional Radiology (ISVIR) when a distress call was announced on the&nbsp;Vistara Airline&nbsp;UK-814&nbsp;flight.&nbsp;

"While returning from ISVIR- on board Bangalore to Delhi flight today evening, in Vistara Airline flight UK-814- A distress call was announced,"&nbsp;read a statement by AIIMS.&nbsp;

The doctors immediately examined the little kid and found that the pulse was absent,&nbsp;extremities were cold and he was not breathing with cyanosed lips and fingers.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-passengers-help-woman-deliver-baby-girl-mid-flight-629381">Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar: Passengers help woman deliver baby girl mid-flight</a>

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<h2>Complicated operation</h2>

With limited resources on board, the doctors administered immediate CPR and attempted to use their individual skill sets&nbsp;to conjure up a solution.&nbsp;

"Successfully IV cannula was placed, an oropharyngeal airway was put and an emergency response was initiated by a whole team of residents on board,&nbsp;and the child was brought to ROSC - the return of circulation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/pakistan-origin-man-arrested-for-making-bomb-threats-aboard-malaysia-airlines-flight-626062">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan-origin man arrested for making bomb threats aboard Malaysia Airlines flight</a>

Notably, the operation became complicated after the child suffered another cardiac arrest. This time, the&nbsp;doctors used an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to resuscuate the child.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"On reaching Nagpur, the child was handed over in stable hemodynamic to the paediatrician," the statement added.&nbsp;

The netizens lauded the divine intervention by the doctors. "The kid has gone through a lot. May he live a healthy life now," said one user, while another added:&nbsp;"Wow wonderful job, my friend in Check shirt - Dr Damandeep is also there!"

(With inputs from agencies)

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In what comes as a miraculous escape, a two-year child aboard a Bengaluru-Delhi Vistara flight on Sunday (August 27) was saved after five doctors, present on the plane, worked together and managed to keep the kid alive.

In what comes as a miraculous escape, a two-year child aboard a Bengaluru-Delhi Vistara flight on Sunday (August 27) was saved after five doctors, present on the plane, worked together and managed to keep the kid alive. India's premier medical research university, All India Institute Of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and confirmed the incident. The team of doctors (Dr Navdeep Kaur, Dr Damandeep Kaur, Dr Rishab Jain, Dr Oishika, Dr Avichala Taxax) was returning from an event organised by the Indian Society for Vascular and Interventional Radiology (ISVIR) when a distress call was announced on the Vistara Airline UK-814 flight. "While returning from ISVIR- on board Bangalore to Delhi flight today evening, in Vistara Airline flight UK-814- A distress call was announced," read a statement by AIIMS. The doctors immediately examined the little kid and found that the pulse was absent, extremities were cold and he was not breathing with cyanosed lips and fingers. Watch | Myanmar: Passengers help woman deliver baby girl mid-flight × Complicated operation With limited resources on board, the doctors administered immediate CPR and attempted to use their individual skill sets to conjure up a solution. "Successfully IV cannula was placed, an oropharyngeal airway was put and an emergency response was initiated by a whole team of residents on board, and the child was brought to ROSC - the return of circulation." Also read | Pakistan-origin man arrested for making bomb threats aboard Malaysia Airlines flight Notably, the operation became complicated after the child suffered another cardiac arrest. This time, the doctors used an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to resuscuate the child. "On reaching Nagpur, the child was handed over in stable hemodynamic to the paediatrician," the statement added. The netizens lauded the divine intervention by the doctors. "The kid has gone through a lot. May he live a healthy life now," said one user, while another added: "Wow wonderful job, my friend in Check shirt - Dr Damandeep is also there!" (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: 2-year-old kid stopped breathing on airplane. What followed next was a miracle

Two Vistara Airlines flights came perilously close to a major mishap at the Delhi Airport on Wednesday (August 23). One airplane was given clearance for landing while the other was cleared for take-off at the same time.

Two Vistara Airlines flights came perilously close to a major mishap at the Delhi Airport on Wednesday (August 23). One airplane was given clearance for landing while the other was cleared for take-off at the same time. Both flights may have gone ahead with the manoeuvre if it wasn't for the Air Traffic Controller (ATC) intervening at the eleventh hour. According to a report by news agency ANI, a Delhi-Bagdogra flight was given the green light for the take-off at the recently inaugurated runway while an Ahmedabad-Delhi flight, after landing on a parallel runway, was inching closer to the end of the runway. According to an official aware of the developments, both flights were granted permission at the same time. However, after assessing the gravity of the situation, ATC asked the Delhi-Bagdogra Vistara flight to abort take-off. Watch | Indigo is first Indian airline valued at over 1 trillion rupees × Violation of SOP may have resulted in collision If the flight's take-off wasn't aborted, the planes could have collided and resulted in major loss of life and property. The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) states that no aircraft or vehicle movement is allowed on the runway during take-off and landing. "Normally a take-off clearance is not issued to an aircraft on one runway unless the aircraft on the second runway has landed," senior pilot and founder of Safety Matters Foundation, Capt Amit Singh was quoted as saying by ANI. Also read | India: IndiGo pilot collapses and dies at boarding gate before operating flight to Pune "However, due to a lapse if the aircraft is permitted to take off from one runway and the aircraft approaching on the second runway decides to abort the landing and carry out a go-around to climb ahead, the flight path of the two aircraft in the air may come in conflict since the runway they were aligned to were closely spaced," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Two Vistara airplanes come perilously close to mishap after being given take-off, landing clearance

Vistara, the Indian full-service airline on Wednesday (August 16) said that a child onboard one of its flights suffered burn injuries because of spillage of a hot beverage. The flight was going from New Delhi to Frankfurt. Vistara added that all medical expenses of the child will be reimbursed by the airline.

The incident happened on flight UK25 on August 11. The child who suffered burn injuries is a 10-year-old girl. She was travelling with her parents.

Vistara has released a statement saying it is reviewing and refining process, wherever required, to avoid such situations in the future.

"Our cabin crew had served hot chocolate to the child on the request of her parents, however, the hot water spilled on her since the child was playful during the service. In line with the SOPs, our crew immediately provided first-aid as warranted for the spill, and sought support from a paramedic onboard, who volunteered to assist until the flight landed in Frankfurt," the spokesperson said in the statement.

The airline has said that it ensured medical care immediately upon landing and arranged an ambulance. The girl along with her mother was sent to the hospital.

A post on social media platform X on August 13 claimed the airline's air hostess caused "2nd degree burn to 10 year old on flight to Frankfurt".

The post by one Rachna Gupta also said an unfortunate accident was poorly handled and that the Vistara hostess did not apologise.

Vistara has said in the statement that its representatives have been in touch with the customers constantly after the incident.

"We have already facilitated their early return to India, arranged for ground transportation in Frankfurt, met them at the airport and extended extensive on-ground support. We have conveyed to the customer that all medical expenses arising from this incident will be reimbursed by us."

"We continue to discuss with the customer and provide any further assistance as required. We are also reviewing and refining our processes, wherever required, to ensure such situations are avoided in the future. As always, safety and comfort of our customers is of utmost importance to us," the spokesperson said.

Vistara is a joint venture between Tatas and Singapore Airlines.

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&nbsp;

Vistara, the Indian full-service airline on Wednesday (August 16) said that a child onboard one of its flights suffered burn injuries because of spillage of a hot beverage.

Vistara, the Indian full-service airline on Wednesday (August 16) said that a child onboard one of its flights suffered burn injuries because of spillage of a hot beverage. The flight was going from New Delhi to Frankfurt. Vistara added that all medical expenses of the child will be reimbursed by the airline. The incident happened on flight UK25 on August 11. The child who suffered burn injuries is a 10-year-old girl. She was travelling with her parents. Vistara has released a statement saying it is reviewing and refining process, wherever required, to avoid such situations in the future. "Our cabin crew had served hot chocolate to the child on the request of her parents, however, the hot water spilled on her since the child was playful during the service. In line with the SOPs, our crew immediately provided first-aid as warranted for the spill, and sought support from a paramedic onboard, who volunteered to assist until the flight landed in Frankfurt," the spokesperson said in the statement. The airline has said that it ensured medical care immediately upon landing and arranged an ambulance. The girl along with her mother was sent to the hospital. A post on social media platform X on August 13 claimed the airline's air hostess caused "2nd degree burn to 10 year old on flight to Frankfurt". The post by one Rachna Gupta also said an unfortunate accident was poorly handled and that the Vistara hostess did not apologise. Vistara has said in the statement that its representatives have been in touch with the customers constantly after the incident. "We have already facilitated their early return to India, arranged for ground transportation in Frankfurt, met them at the airport and extended extensive on-ground support. We have conveyed to the customer that all medical expenses arising from this incident will be reimbursed by us." "We continue to discuss with the customer and provide any further assistance as required. We are also reviewing and refining our processes, wherever required, to ensure such situations are avoided in the future. As always, safety and comfort of our customers is of utmost importance to us," the spokesperson said. Vistara is a joint venture between Tatas and Singapore Airlines. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Girl suffers burns on board flight as beverage spills, Vistara  to pay medical bills

The proposed Air India-Vistara merger might not have smooth sailing as previously predicted. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has issued a show-cause notice to the Tata Group-owned Air India, asking why an investigation should not be conducted into the merger, according to a report in Mint.

The proposed Air India-Vistara merger might not have smooth sailing as previously predicted. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has issued a show-cause notice to the Tata Group-owned Air India, asking why an investigation should not be conducted into the merger, according to a report in Mint. The Tata Group has been given 30 days to respond to the notice by the fair-trade regulator and secure approval for the merger of its airlines without any investigation. The publication, quoting a source said, if the CCI is not impressed by the response and launches an investigation, the Tata Group will have to either divest its stake in Vistara or commit to “behavioural guidelines" that will not impact competition in the aviation sector. Notably, CCI approval is mandatory for any 'mergers and acquisitions' that meet the asset and turnover threshold enshrined under Section 5 of the Competition Act. The statutory body under the Government of India conducts its homework into any merger in two phases. The first phase involves ascertaining if the merger is likely to cause an adverse effect on the competition in the relevant market or not. The second phase of the investigation is launched when the regulator sees a potential fallout in competition due to a merger. Tata Group approaches CCI The issuance of the show cause notice comes in the backdrop of Tata Group approaching the anti-trust regulator in April. “The proposed transaction relates to the consideration of the merger of Tata Singapore Airlines Limited (Vistara) into Air India and the acquisition of shares in the merged entity by Singapore Airlines and Tata Sons," a notice filed by the Tata Group with CCI said at the time. WATCH | Air India, Vistara merger kickstarts × Despite Air India assuring in the letter that the merger will not lead to any change in the competitive landscape or cause any adverse effect on competition, the regulator fired the show-cause notice anyway. Tata Sons currently holds 51 per cent of Vistara while the remaining 49 per cent is owned by Singapore Airlines (SIA). After the proposed merger, SIA will hold a minority stake of 25.1 per cent in the newly-formed entity, Air India-Vistara merger Tata announced the merger of Air India-Vistara in November last year, in an attempt to take on homegrown domestic aviation market leader IndiGo. The low-cost carrier has a market share of more than 60 per cent and it recently placed an order of record 500 A320 planes from French manufacturer Airbus. The multi-billion dollar deal broke the record of the largest-ever number of aircraft ordered by a single airline company, eclipsing that of 470 jets ordered by Air India, earlier this year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India's anti-trust regulator to probe if Air India-Vistara merger hurts competition: Report

On Monday, a 45-year-old Italian woman was arrested for assaulting crew members on a Vistara Abu Dhabi-Mumbai flight. According to the airlines, Paola Perruccio, who had purchased an economy class ticket, insisted on sitting in business class and assaulted a crew member when she was stopped. She allegedly punched one cabin crew member, spat on another, and walked around the plane partially naked.

She was arrested by Mumbai police after a cabin crew complained against her, but she was later granted bail by a Mumbai court. Ms Perruccio had to be restrained in the aircraft mid-air for "unruly and violent behaviour".

Vistara Airlines said in an official statement, "In view of the continued unruly conduct and violent behaviour, the captain issued a warning card and made a decision to restrain the customer. The pilot made regular announcements to assure the other customers onboard of their safety and security. In accordance with the guidelines and our stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs), the security agencies on-ground were informed to take immediate action upon arrival".&nbsp;

She also removed some of her clothes and walked down the aisle partially naked, hurling insults and assaulting crew members. The Mumbai Police filed a charge sheet against the passenger within a day of filing a case against her and said,&nbsp;

She also removed some of her clothes and walked down the aisle partially naked, hurling insults and assaulting crew members.&nbsp;The Mumbai Police filed a charge sheet against the passenger within a day of filing a case against her and said, "Mumbai Police has filed a charge sheet in record time in a case of misbehaviour by an airline passenger mid-air".&nbsp;

A medical examination was also conducted on the woman before booking her under several sections of the Indian Penal Code. The police said they have completed all formalities of recording statements of co-passengers,&nbsp;crew, and others.

The shocking incident is the latest in a series of recent reports of unruly passengers misbehaving with fellow passengers and crew members. Airlines in India have also been subjected to increased scrutiny since last year, initially as a result of several mechanical failures mid-flight, and more recently as a result of the crew's handling of rowdy passengers.

On Monday, a 45-year-old Italian woman was arrested for assaulting crew members on a Vistara Abu Dhabi-Mumbai flight. According to the airlines, Paola Perruccio, who had purchased an economy class ticket, insisted on sitting in business class and assaulted a crew member when she was stopped.

On Monday, a 45-year-old Italian woman was arrested for assaulting crew members on a Vistara Abu Dhabi-Mumbai flight. According to the airlines, Paola Perruccio, who had purchased an economy class ticket, insisted on sitting in business class and assaulted a crew member when she was stopped. She allegedly punched one cabin crew member, spat on another, and walked around the plane partially naked. She was arrested by Mumbai police after a cabin crew complained against her, but she was later granted bail by a Mumbai court. Ms Perruccio had to be restrained in the aircraft mid-air for "unruly and violent behaviour". Vistara Airlines said in an official statement, "In view of the continued unruly conduct and violent behaviour, the captain issued a warning card and made a decision to restrain the customer. The pilot made regular announcements to assure the other customers onboard of their safety and security. In accordance with the guidelines and our stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs), the security agencies on-ground were informed to take immediate action upon arrival". She also removed some of her clothes and walked down the aisle partially naked, hurling insults and assaulting crew members. The Mumbai Police filed a charge sheet against the passenger within a day of filing a case against her and said, She also removed some of her clothes and walked down the aisle partially naked, hurling insults and assaulting crew members. The Mumbai Police filed a charge sheet against the passenger within a day of filing a case against her and said, "Mumbai Police has filed a charge sheet in record time in a case of misbehaviour by an airline passenger mid-air". A medical examination was also conducted on the woman before booking her under several sections of the Indian Penal Code. The police said they have completed all formalities of recording statements of co-passengers, crew, and others. The shocking incident is the latest in a series of recent reports of unruly passengers misbehaving with fellow passengers and crew members. Airlines in India have also been subjected to increased scrutiny since last year, initially as a result of several mechanical failures mid-flight, and more recently as a result of the crew's handling of rowdy passengers.

Italian woman arrested by police for allegedly punching Vistara Airline cabin crew and stripping on flight

On Tuesday, Singapore Airlines Lt (SIA) announced its plans to invest $250 million into India's national carrier, Air India. The deal is&nbsp;as part of a merger of its Vistara full-service airline joint venture with Tata Sons.

Following the deal, the airline will emerge as Air India's 25.1 per cent owner. Under the agreement, it stands to spend up to&nbsp;$615 million which as per reports will be stake, payable after the completion of the merger. The company said that it would fund the growth plans through its internal cash resources.

The Singaporean carrier in a statement said that subject to regulatory approvals, the two companies are aiming to complete the merger by March 2024. Additionally, the pair have agreed to "additional capital injections&nbsp;in Air India if required to fund growth and operations over the next two financial years".&nbsp;

SIA in its official notification of the merger announced that it will also invest US$250 million (INR 20,585 million or S$360 million) in Air India as part of the transaction.

As per Reuters, the merger will create a strong rival for India's dominant carrier IndiGo, while providing Singaporean airlines with a more solid foothold in "one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/forbes-indias-100-richest-list-check-how-many-women-billionaire-are-in-the-list-538505">Forbes India's 100 richest list: Check how many women billionaire are in the list</a>

In addition, it will enable Tata to consolidate its brands around full-service Air India and low-cost Air India Express. The Indian conglomerate recently brought out its former partner AirAsia and their joint project AirAsia India is also being merged with Air India Express.

Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran in a statement called the merger an "important milestone" in the journey to make "Air India a truly world-class airline".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/singapore-airlines-tata-group-in-confidential-talks-over-air-india-vistara-integration-525145">Singapore Airlines, Tata Group in ‘confidential talks’ over Air India, Vistara integration&nbsp;</a>

He added that they are working to transform the national carrier "with the aim of providing great customer experience, every time, for every customer. As part of the transformation, Air India is focusing on growing both its network and fleet, revamping its customer proposition, enhancing safety, reliability, and on-time performance."

Singapore Airlines Ltd's Chief Executive Goh Choon Phong said "We will work together to support Air India's transformation programme, unlock its significant potential, and restore it to its position as a leading airline on the global stage".

Currently, the Singaporean carrier owns a 49 per cent stake in the Tata SIA airlines which operate Vistara, while the rest is owned by Tata Sons.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Tuesday, Singapore Airlines Lt (SIA) announced its plans to invest $250 million into India's national carrier, Air India. The deal is as part of a merger of its Vistara full-service airline joint venture with Tata Sons.

On Tuesday, Singapore Airlines Lt (SIA) announced its plans to invest $250 million into India's national carrier, Air India. The deal is as part of a merger of its Vistara full-service airline joint venture with Tata Sons. Following the deal, the airline will emerge as Air India's 25.1 per cent owner. Under the agreement, it stands to spend up to $615 million which as per reports will be stake, payable after the completion of the merger. The company said that it would fund the growth plans through its internal cash resources. The Singaporean carrier in a statement said that subject to regulatory approvals, the two companies are aiming to complete the merger by March 2024. Additionally, the pair have agreed to "additional capital injections in Air India if required to fund growth and operations over the next two financial years". SIA in its official notification of the merger announced that it will also invest US$250 million (INR 20,585 million or S$360 million) in Air India as part of the transaction. As per Reuters, the merger will create a strong rival for India's dominant carrier IndiGo, while providing Singaporean airlines with a more solid foothold in "one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets". Also read | Forbes India's 100 richest list: Check how many women billionaire are in the list In addition, it will enable Tata to consolidate its brands around full-service Air India and low-cost Air India Express. The Indian conglomerate recently brought out its former partner AirAsia and their joint project AirAsia India is also being merged with Air India Express. Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran in a statement called the merger an "important milestone" in the journey to make "Air India a truly world-class airline". Also read | Singapore Airlines, Tata Group in ‘confidential talks’ over Air India, Vistara integration He added that they are working to transform the national carrier "with the aim of providing great customer experience, every time, for every customer. As part of the transformation, Air India is focusing on growing both its network and fleet, revamping its customer proposition, enhancing safety, reliability, and on-time performance." Singapore Airlines Ltd's Chief Executive Goh Choon Phong said "We will work together to support Air India's transformation programme, unlock its significant potential, and restore it to its position as a leading airline on the global stage". Currently, the Singaporean carrier owns a 49 per cent stake in the Tata SIA airlines which operate Vistara, while the rest is owned by Tata Sons. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Singapore Airlines Ltd-owned Vistara announces merger with Air India

Former Indian pacer Irfan Pathan recently took to social media to offer a scathing review of one of the most popular airlines in the world, Vistara. In the statement that he released on Twitter, Pathan alleged that his ticket class was downgraded involuntarily.

The Indian cricketer turned pundit offered fans some insight into his experience with the airlines, detailing how he was treated extremely poorly by the ground staff while travelling to Dubai from Mumbai.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-have-ability-to-squash-everybody-former-nz-all-rounder-feels-rohit-co-favourites-to-win-asia-cup-510125" hreflang="en">'India have ability to squash everybody': Former NZ all-rounder feels Rohit &amp; Co. favourites to win Asia Cup</a>

"Today, I was travelling to Dubai from Mumbai by Vistara Flight UK-201. At the check-in counter, I had a very bad experience, Vistara was involuntarily downgrading my ticket class which was a confirmed booking.

"I was made to wait one and half an hour at the counter for a resolution. Along with me, my wife, my 8 month old in fact and 5 years old child also had to go through this.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Hope you notice and rectify <a href="https://twitter.com/airvistara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airvistara</a> <a href="https://t.co/IaR0nb74Cb">pic.twitter.com/IaR0nb74Cb</a>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1562461570990751746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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He subsequently revealed that he was not the only passenger who was treated this way by the airline, revealing how a myriad of fellow travellers stood alongside him trying to solve their predicament.&nbsp;

"The ground staff were rude and giving various excuses. In fact, couple of passengers also had to go through the same experience. I don't understand why they oversold the flight and how is this even approved by the management?

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-has-injured-shaheen-afridi-travelled-to-uae-with-pakistan-for-asia-cup-pcb-spokesperson-reveals-510071" hreflang="en">Why has injured Shaheen Afridi travelled to UAE with Pakistan for Asia Cup? PCB spokesperson reveals</a>

"I would request the concerned authorities to take immediate action on these incidents so that no one has to go through the same experience as I did," read the cricketer's&nbsp;tweet.

Pathan is presumably charting a course to the United Arab Emirates to watch India perform on the international stage against some of the strongest teams in the world in the 2022 edition of the Asia Cup.&nbsp;

Former Indian pacer Irfan Pathan recently took to social media to offer a scathing review of one of the most popular airlines in the world, Vistara. In the statement that he released on Twitter, Pathan alleged that his ticket class was downgraded involuntarily.

Former Indian pacer Irfan Pathan recently took to social media to offer a scathing review of one of the most popular airlines in the world, Vistara. In the statement that he released on Twitter, Pathan alleged that his ticket class was downgraded involuntarily. The Indian cricketer turned pundit offered fans some insight into his experience with the airlines, detailing how he was treated extremely poorly by the ground staff while travelling to Dubai from Mumbai. ALSO READ: 'India have ability to squash everybody': Former NZ all-rounder feels Rohit & Co. favourites to win Asia Cup "Today, I was travelling to Dubai from Mumbai by Vistara Flight UK-201. At the check-in counter, I had a very bad experience, Vistara was involuntarily downgrading my ticket class which was a confirmed booking. "I was made to wait one and half an hour at the counter for a resolution. Along with me, my wife, my 8 month old in fact and 5 years old child also had to go through this. Hope you notice and rectify @airvistara pic.twitter.com/IaR0nb74Cb — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) August 24, 2022 × He subsequently revealed that he was not the only passenger who was treated this way by the airline, revealing how a myriad of fellow travellers stood alongside him trying to solve their predicament. "The ground staff were rude and giving various excuses. In fact, couple of passengers also had to go through the same experience. I don't understand why they oversold the flight and how is this even approved by the management? ALSO READ: Why has injured Shaheen Afridi travelled to UAE with Pakistan for Asia Cup? PCB spokesperson reveals "I would request the concerned authorities to take immediate action on these incidents so that no one has to go through the same experience as I did," read the cricketer's tweet. Pathan is presumably charting a course to the United Arab Emirates to watch India perform on the international stage against some of the strongest teams in the world in the 2022 edition of the Asia Cup.

'Ground staff were rude'- Irfan Pathan nukes popular airline following an extremely poor travelling experience

Airlines in India are all set to resume flights post the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-cases-rise-to-2301-in-india-290314">lockdown</a> period, however, the issue of refunds for flights cancelled between March 25 and April 14 remains unresolved.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-urges-citizens-to-light-diyas-candles-on-sunday-at-9-pm-for-9-mins-to-dispel-darkness-brought-by-coronavirus-290268">Also Read: PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, candles on Sunday at 9 pm for 9 mins</a>

while passengers are demanding cash refunds for cancelled bookings during the lockdown period, airlines have refused to meet such request owing to cash shortage. Fliers have been left in the lurch with some airlines not even offering clarity on refunds.&nbsp;

The government suspended all domestic flights starting on March 25 midnight to curb the spread of coronavirus but for the passengers of airlines who had booked tickets to fly during the lockdown period, it is has hit them hard.&nbsp;

First, they can't travel to their hometowns or other destinations they had booked tickets to and second, the refund policies of airlines is resulting into heavy monetary losses.&nbsp;

Twitter is full of arguments between airlines and furious passengers as airlines are offering a reservation credit for the full amount which can be used to make another booking in future but the catch here is that a flier has to pay the fare difference for the future date ticket.&nbsp;

"I had to attend a conference this month in Goa. With the conference getting cancelled, my tickets are not going to be used now. I don't want a credit voucher as it is not sure I would be flying in future or not", said Sanjeet Kumar, a daily based businessman. &nbsp;

The confusion has multiplied with many fliers making bookings through travel agents or online travel portals. Fliers also complain about the call centre phone lines of airlines are constantly busy.&nbsp;

Indian carriers say there is little they can do on refunds as they are staring at a dark future and it is an existential crisis for the airlines.

The thumb rule generally is that if passengers cancel the bookings, they get back refunds, but airlines levy a cancellation charge, as high as 40-50 per cent, on the other hand if an airline cancels the flight, the passengers get a full refund.&nbsp;

Airlines insist this particular rule can't be applied during the lockdown period as it is beyond their control. &nbsp;

While the uncertainty over the status of scheduled flights due to the coronavirus outbreak looms large, most airlines seem helpless about the situation and are not waiving off the domestic flight cancellation charges.&nbsp;

"The cancellations of flights in this outbreak of COVID-19 is beyond the control of airlines as well as passengers. We have automatically extended the validity of bookings made before March 31, 2020 for travel up to April 30 to December 31, 2020. however, fare difference, if any, will apply", said a Vistara spokesperson explaining their policy.

Meanwhile, the government says there is little it can do as the domestic aviation industry is de-regulated and such a lockdown situation hasn't been witnessed before.

Airlines in India are all set to resume flights post the lockdown period, however, the issue of refunds for flights cancelled between March 25 and April 14 remains unresolved.

Airlines in India are all set to resume flights post the lockdown period, however, the issue of refunds for flights cancelled between March 25 and April 14 remains unresolved. Also Read: PM Modi urges citizens to light diyas, candles on Sunday at 9 pm for 9 mins while passengers are demanding cash refunds for cancelled bookings during the lockdown period, airlines have refused to meet such request owing to cash shortage. Fliers have been left in the lurch with some airlines not even offering clarity on refunds. The government suspended all domestic flights starting on March 25 midnight to curb the spread of coronavirus but for the passengers of airlines who had booked tickets to fly during the lockdown period, it is has hit them hard. First, they can't travel to their hometowns or other destinations they had booked tickets to and second, the refund policies of airlines is resulting into heavy monetary losses. Twitter is full of arguments between airlines and furious passengers as airlines are offering a reservation credit for the full amount which can be used to make another booking in future but the catch here is that a flier has to pay the fare difference for the future date ticket. "I had to attend a conference this month in Goa. With the conference getting cancelled, my tickets are not going to be used now. I don't want a credit voucher as it is not sure I would be flying in future or not", said Sanjeet Kumar, a daily based businessman. The confusion has multiplied with many fliers making bookings through travel agents or online travel portals. Fliers also complain about the call centre phone lines of airlines are constantly busy. Indian carriers say there is little they can do on refunds as they are staring at a dark future and it is an existential crisis for the airlines. The thumb rule generally is that if passengers cancel the bookings, they get back refunds, but airlines levy a cancellation charge, as high as 40-50 per cent, on the other hand if an airline cancels the flight, the passengers get a full refund. Airlines insist this particular rule can't be applied during the lockdown period as it is beyond their control. While the uncertainty over the status of scheduled flights due to the coronavirus outbreak looms large, most airlines seem helpless about the situation and are not waiving off the domestic flight cancellation charges. "The cancellations of flights in this outbreak of COVID-19 is beyond the control of airlines as well as passengers. We have automatically extended the validity of bookings made before March 31, 2020 for travel up to April 30 to December 31, 2020. however, fare difference, if any, will apply", said a Vistara spokesperson explaining their policy. Meanwhile, the government says there is little it can do as the domestic aviation industry is de-regulated and such a lockdown situation hasn't been witnessed before.

Airfare refund policy confuses passengers amid lockdown

Just days after aviation minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-air-india-looks-for-rs-1500-crore-short-term-loans-22668">Raju said the government does not want </a>Air India to &quot;go the Kingfisher way&quot;, Vistara&#39;s CEO Leslie Thng said today that Tata Group and Singapore Airlines are &quot;open to bid&quot; for Air India.

Vistara Airlines which started operations in India two years ago is a joint venture between Tata group and Singapore Airlines.

&quot;The two promoters are open to evaluate bids for Air India. They keep an open mind,&quot; Vistara CEO&nbsp;Thng said.

Tata group chairman N. Chandrasekaran had said last year that his group was ready to bid for the state-run airlines.

Civil aviation minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju had said in Lok Sabha last week: &quot;We don&#39;t want Air India to go the Kingfisher (Airlines) way,&quot;&nbsp;adding,&quot;We want the Air India to serve the nation, to serve the people and fly high.&quot;

The minister had told India&#39;s lower house that a ministerial committee headed by finance minister Arun Jaitley is looking into the matter of disinvestment of Air India.

Niti Aayog&nbsp;has recommended complete privatisation of Air India which has been running at a loss for decades.&nbsp;

In 2012, the UPA government headed by PM Manmohan Singh had extended a bailout package of 30,000 crore as the national airways struggled to keep afloat.

The airline has a debt of more than Rs 52,000 crore.

Tata group chairman N. Chandrasekaran had said last year that his group was ready to bid the state-run airlines.

Just days after aviation minister Raju said the government does not want Air India to "go the Kingfisher way", Vistara's CEO Leslie Thng said today that Tata Group and Singapore Airlines are "open to bid" for Air India. Vistara Airlines which started operations in India two years ago is a joint venture between Tata group and Singapore Airlines. "The two promoters are open to evaluate bids for Air India. They keep an open mind," Vistara CEO Thng said. Tata group chairman N. Chandrasekaran had said last year that his group was ready to bid for the state-run airlines. Civil aviation minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju had said in Lok Sabha last week: "We don't want Air India to go the Kingfisher (Airlines) way," adding,"We want the Air India to serve the nation, to serve the people and fly high." The minister had told India's lower house that a ministerial committee headed by finance minister Arun Jaitley is looking into the matter of disinvestment of Air India. Niti Aayog has recommended complete privatisation of Air India which has been running at a loss for decades. In 2012, the UPA government headed by PM Manmohan Singh had extended a bailout package of 30,000 crore as the national airways struggled to keep afloat. The airline has a debt of more than Rs 52,000 crore.

Disinvestment on cards, Tata group and Singapore Airlines ready to bid for Air India