INDIA'S AVIATION INDUSTRY ON BRINK OF LANDMARK CHANGE

Mumbai: India's airlines are gearing up for a pivotal week that will reshape the competitive landscape in the nation's fastest-growing aviation market. Two major airlines, Air India and Indigo (operated by InterGlobe Aviation Ltd.), are set to undergo significant changes that will redefine their areas of expertise.

On Monday, Vistara is scheduled to operate its final flight before merging with Air India, marking the beginning of a new era for the Indian aviation industry. The merger, which was finalized earlier this year, saw the Tata Group take on one of the most complex aviation mergers globally.

According to aviation experts, the union of Air India and Vistara will be a crucial test of the Tata Group's ability to improve Air India's services and turn around its loss-making carrier. The merged entity will boast a total fleet of 210 jets, with an additional 470 on order from Boeing Co. and Airbus SE.

Meanwhile, Indigo is set to debut its business-class cabins on select routes this Thursday, marking the airline's first foray into premium travel beyond budget travel. The move aims to revamp Indigo's image and compete head-on with Air India in the premium sector.

"It's now a two-player game," said Ajay Awtaney, founder of LiveFromALounge.com, a local aviation analysis platform. "Both Air India and Indigo are trying to outdo each other's strategies."

Air India has faced controversy this year, particularly regarding its customer service, which has been marred by issues with lost luggage, delayed flights, poor food, and dirty seats. The airline ranked the worst in the world for lost luggage as of November 4.

In contrast, Indigo is poised to expand its business-class services, starting at an affordable price point of around Rs 18,000 ($213) per ticket. The airline's business-class service will feature perks like priority check-in, anytime boarding, a more generous baggage allowance, and a 5-inch recline seat.

Vistara Fliers Worried Over Cabin Service Standards

Devoted Vistara fliers are expressing concern over the potential fall in cabin service standards post-merger. Air India has assured that Vistara's catering will be extended to all planes across the new merged airline, but many travelers fear this might not be enough to assuage their concerns.

With the merger and Indigo's foray into premium travel under way, travelers are left to wonder what the future holds for India's aviation industry. Will Air India and Vistara manage to maintain the standards of service that made air travel enjoyable? Only time will tell as this intense competition heats up in the skies above India.