Vistara is the third full-service carrier operating in the Indian aviation market that marks the return of the Tata Group into this business. This business conglomerate used to provide flight services in the country around six decades back. Later, the same carrier was taken over by the government, and now operates as Air India – the national flag carrier. The Tata Group also owns a significant percentage of shares in the recently launched AirAsia, but has a majority ownership of 51 per cent in Vistara. This Delhi-based airline started its operations on the 9th of January. The project was announced back in 2013 while the procedure of setting up the carrier started in the mid of the year 2014, after the formation of the joint venture between Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Tata. Both the partners are known for efficient services and skills in their respective fields; hence industry watchers are expecting that Vistara flight fares as well as its offerings will be unique.
Seating
The concept of Premium Economy Class was still unknown in the country. This carrier is credited with introducing the latest seating option to fliers while making the flight reservation. Unlike other carriers, travellers can make bookings under the premium class for Mumbai Delhi flight with this airline. As per reports, seats under this configuration are spacious and more comfortable as they have extra legroom. It is the solution for people who wanted premium services at an economical cost. The difference between the cost of reservation for First and Economy seating is quite high, and it may seem irrelevant for short-haul journeys. However, compromising with comfort is also not an option. Experts in this field came up with a better solution, and launched this new seating option, giving a way between Business and Economy Classes.
This carrier has drawn up a different plan from competitors and features a three-class configuration. Usually, flights feature three to five times economy seats as compared to the business ones. However, in Vistara flights, the number is quite low as around 36 seats are dedicated to people who are willing to pay a little extra for more comfort. The price for these seats is roughly twice the economy and half of the business ones. This ensures that the company gets enough of revenue to keep it in profits. Singapore Airlines has been operating in the global market for quite some time; hence has expertise, and it is not a new concept for them. This strategy caters to the demands of people who shifted from Business Class due to high costs, but are not satisfied. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company said that they have hit on a sweet spot as most passengers are willing to be treated differently.
Difference in the Offerings
As compared to 40 inches seat pitch and 7 inches recline, the new arrangement offers 33 to 36 and 4.5 inches seat pitch and recline, respectively. However, there is around 20 per cent more legroom when compared to the economy seating arrangements. Winged headrest, longer armrest, leather headrests and tray services are also parts of the new offering. Apart from these in-flight amenities, travellers will also get priority boarding facility and a separate check-in counter on the grounds. This service is the first of its kind for Indian fliers, and the response of fliers will be worth waiting as many carriers may change their seating arrangement afterwards.
Martin Wynn
