Vistara: A Tata-SIA Venture's Ascent and Merger Vistara, a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines (SIA), launched in 2015, fulfilling a long-held ambition thwarted by earlier regulatory hurdles. The airline aimed to provide premium full-service travel in a market dominated by low-cost carriers. SIA holds a 49% stake, reflecting India's revised FDI regulations in aviation. Initially capitalised with combined investment from both parent companies, Vistara quickly established a reputation for high on-time performance, exceeding 90% in its first months. Within seven months, it had transported half a million passengers. By February 2016, it held a 2% share of the domestic market. Expansion included international routes to Singapore in 2019, and the introduction of Boeing 787-9 wide-body aircraft in 2020, a first for Indian carriers. Vistara also pioneered the use of sustainable aviation fuel on a commercial flight in India. The airline's growth, however, culminated in its merger with Air India, following Tata Group's acquisition of the latter. The merger, approved by the Competition Commission of India in September 2023 and the National Company Law Tribunal in June 2024, saw SIA retain a 25.1% stake in the combined entity. Vistara ceased operations on November 12, 2024, completing its integration with Air India.