Two years after Tata Group took control of Air India in a $2.4 billion deal, re-kitting an ageing fleet amid parts shortages and persistent flight delays stand in the way of the former state-owned carrier's intent to become "a world class airline".

Speaking on this issue, the chief executive of Air India, Campbell Wilson confided that this problem is ‘much worse’ for Air India as the airline has reached the halfway mark of its five-year transformation program.

Global shortages are hurting plans for most airlines, but the problem is "more acute" for Air India, CEO Campbell Wilson said, as India's flag carrier is nearing the halfway mark of a five-year turnaround plan but starting a generation behind rivals like Dubai's Emirates and Qatar Airways.

Air India and Vistara are set to merge on November 12, 2024, integrating their frequent flyer programs, Club Vistara and Flying Returns.

This episode of the Skift India Travel Podcast weighs in whether the Air India-Vistara merger is a strategic win or a potential misstep.

Club Vistara members can transfer their points and benefits to Flying Returns. This merger ensures that travelers can continue getting their membership perks without interruption.