Vistara-Air India Merger: What Credit Cardholders Need to Know

The upcoming merger of Vistara with Air India, effective November 12, 2024, will bring significant changes for Vistara credit cardholders. With Vistara’s loyalty program, Club Vistara, being integrated into Air India’s Flying Returns, here are the key updates for cardholders:

1. Club Vistara Points Transfer

  • Starting from November 12, 2024, all Club Vistara (CV) points accumulated through Vistara credit cards will be transferred to Flying Returns points.
  • The transfer will occur at a 1:1 ratio, giving you the same number of points in Air India’s loyalty program.
  • The transferred points will have an extended validity of one year, providing cardholders more time to redeem them.

2. Tier Status Migration

  • Your current tier status with Vistara will carry over to Flying Returns. The new status will reflect your cumulative points and tier across both programs.

3. Voucher Transfer

  • Complimentary ticket vouchers and class upgrade vouchers earned through Vistara credit cards will also migrate to the Flying Returns program, ensuring continuity of benefits.

4. Changes in Airline Partnerships

  • From October 1, 2024, Vistara will discontinue partnerships with airlines such as Japan Airlines, Air Canada, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines.
  • Cardholders will no longer be able to book award flights or earn points with these airlines for travel dates beyond September 30, 2024.

5. Phasing Out of Vistara Co-Branded Credit Cards

  • Vistara co-branded credit cards will be phased out post-merger. No new Vistara credit cards will be issued after September 30, 2024.
  • Existing card renewals will not be processed after March 31, 2025, but cardholders can continue to enjoy their benefits until March 31, 2026.

6. Linking Club Vistara and Flying Returns Accounts

  • Cardholders should link their Club Vistara and Flying Returns accounts manually to avoid any disruptions. This can be done by logging into your Club Vistara account and entering your Flying Returns membership ID.

Ensure you’re prepared for these changes to make the most of your rewards and benefits as the merger unfolds.