Archana Sharma- New Delhi
The Tata-SIA Airlines (TSAL) has unveiled their new brand name and logo, ‘Vistara’ at the Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi. Talking about the history, partnership and opportunity of the TATA group and Singapore Airlines, Prasad Menon, chairman, TSAL, said, “Tata has been looking to re-enter the air space and with the unlimited potential of the Indian Aviation sector, this partnership will promote India as a tourism destination as well as an investment one.” The Tatas pioneered the first commercial airlines ‘Air India’ in 1932, and was later nationalised.
According to Phee Teik Yeoh, CEO, TSAL, “‘Vistara’ meaning limitless expanse along with the ‘Yantra’ logo with the eight pointed star at the centre reflect limitless possibilities for guests and a commitment of the highest standards of service and the excellence.” He further stated, “The partnership leading to ‘Vistara’ airlines will bring together the legendary hospitality of TATA group and the World renowned service excellence of the Singapore Airlines.”
Vistara will take delivery of its first Airbus A320-200 in Septmber and plans to add four aircraft in the next few months. By the end of the fifth year of operations Vistara will take the fleet size to 20 planes, including A320neos. The new airlines will be operational by October this year, waiting for approvals from the necessary regulatory authorities.
Expecting Vistara to meet the Indian market demands in relation to routes and pricing, Swee Wah Mak, director, TSAL and executive vice president commercial, SIA, stated, “We have customer centric focus keeping in mind innovation and customer promise.” The airline would offer both business and economy class seats. About the routes Vistara would be focusing on, Yeoh said that the airline would be operating to cities with “demand for full-service airlines.”
“India is going to become the third largest aviation market by 2020 and has already seen about 60 million passengers in 2013, a number which will increase to 175 million by 2021.” stated Dr Mukund Rajan, member of group executive council and brand custodian, Tata Sons and director, TSAL.
In September 2013, Tata and SIA got into the Joint venture. Only in July this year the airline crossed the last regulatory obstacle when the Directorate General of Civil Aviation(DGCA) rejected all objections raised against the partnership.
