Air India Drives Digital Transformation and Prepares for Vistara Merger

Air India Drives Digital Transformation and Prepares for Vistara Merger

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on November 6, 2024

As Air India celebrates two years of its five-year transformation plan, Vihaan.AI, the airline marks significant strides in digital advancement and operational improvement. Launched in 2022, Vihaan.AI has been the foundation of Air India’s commitment to reinvent itself, focusing on five key areas: customer experience, operational excellence, talent development, industry leadership, and digital innovation. With the upcoming merger with Vistara scheduled for November 12, 2024, Air India is positioning itself as a major player in the global airline industry.

Over the past two years, Air India has invested $200 million in technological upgrades, led by Chief Digital and Technology Officer Dr. Satya Ramaswamy. This extensive overhaul includes a shift to cloud-based platforms, new applications, and a re-engineered website and mobile app, offering faster booking processes, real-time updates, and an overall more intuitive experience. A significant focus has been on upgrading the in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems to provide a more seamless, personalized experience that passengers can access via their own devices. This improvement aligns with Air India’s mission to standardize passenger experience across its varied fleet.

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An AI-powered chatbot, AI.g, launched in May 2023, has revolutionized customer service by autonomously managing 97% of customer inquiries, drastically reducing wait times and improving response quality. Integrated across Air India’s website, app, and call centers, AI.g ensures 24/7 support, setting a new standard in customer service.

Air India has rapidly modernized its internal systems, deploying 140 technology solutions in just two years. This includes migrating core functions to cloud platforms for improved scalability and reliability. Enhanced tools for crew management, safety systems, and general operations have streamlined the airline’s day-to-day functions. The addition of mobile devices for pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff provides real-time access to critical information, boosting efficiency across operational tasks.

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A major milestone in Air India’s transformation journey is the anticipated merger with Vistara, scheduled for November 2024. This merger is part of Tata Group’s strategic initiative to consolidate its aviation assets under one flagship brand. The integration has already seen over 270,000 Vistara passenger reservations and more than 4.5 million loyalty program members transferred to Air India’s digital systems. Once the merger is finalized, Air India’s network will exceed 700 daily flights, further expanding both its domestic and international reach.

Initially, Vistara’s flights will operate under the designation “AI2” and maintain their service standards, later transitioning fully to Air India’s flight codes.

Through strategic investment and technological modernization, Air India aims to solidify its reputation in a competitive global aviation market. The merger with Vistara and ongoing digital improvements underscore its ambition to offer a world-class experience for travelers. As the airline enters this new chapter, it continues to prioritize customer experience and operational efficiency, ensuring it is well-prepared to meet the demands of the modern traveler.


YoloBus Sees Rising Family and Senior Travel to Southern Pilgrim Spots This Monsoon

YoloBus Sees Rising Family and Senior Travel to Southern Pilgrim Spots This Monsoon

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 4, 2025

YoloBus, one of India’s top intercity mobility platforms, is witnessing a noticeable change in traveler preferences this monsoon season, with a strong surge in demand for southern religious destinations such as Tirupati, Madurai, and Rameswaram.

Responding to this uptick, YoloBus is now operating 25 dedicated services on these routes and has announced plans to introduce 10 additional services in the coming months to cater to growing passenger interest.

A particularly sharp trend is unfolding on the high-traffic Bangalore–Tirupati corridor, which has recorded an 8% week-on-week rise in passenger numbers. In response, YoloBus recently deployed three new premium buses on this popular route, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring comfort, safety, and reliability for its passengers.

“Southern India continues to draw travelers for its spiritual and cultural depth. The growth we’re seeing is aligned with long-term preferences, not just short-term reactions,” said Sanjay Jadoun, CEO of YoloBus. “We’re committed to expanding our network and enhancing the travel experience for our passengers across the region.”

More Families and Senior Citizens on Board

YoloBus is also observing a change in traveler demographics. There’s been a noticeable rise in bookings from families and senior citizens, particularly from urban hubs like Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Today, around 12% of YoloBus’s passengers are above the age of 45, indicating stronger trust in the brand’s high safety and comfort standards among older travelers.

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Even as some parts of Northern India deal with safety concerns, travel trends to the South have remained steady and unaffected. The region’s peaceful, culturally rich pilgrim spots continue to attract visitors, irrespective of external events.

Future Plans for Expansion

While YoloBus currently does not operate services to Kerala destinations like Kochi, Munnar, or Alappuzha, nor to prominent pilgrim hubs such as Sabarimala, Velankanni, or Palani, the company is closely monitoring demand patterns and exploring possible expansion into these routes.

About YoloBus

YoloBus is a leading intercity travel provider in India, offering premium, safe, and comfortable journeys. Serving over 1 million travelers across more than 400 routes nationwide, YoloBus connects cities through a modern fleet of luxury buses equipped with top-tier amenities and advanced safety systems. With a focus on customer satisfaction, punctuality, and continuous innovation, YoloBus continues to raise the bar for intercity bus travel in India.


Uncover the Soul of Krabi with 5 Extraordinary Experiences in 2025

Uncover the Soul of Krabi with 5 Extraordinary Experiences in 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 3, 2025

As Thailand captures the world’s imagination—serving as the backdrop for the newest season of The White Lotus and the much-awaited Jurassic World Rebirth—there’s never been a better time to visit. Perched gracefully on Krabi’s stunning Andaman shoreline, Phulay Bay, a Ritz‑Carlton Reserve, gives travellers a chance to step into these cinematic stories, all while immersing in Thailand’s rich cultural and natural beauty.

Here are five unforgettable ways to experience Krabi’s soul in 2025:

Explore Krabi’s Untouched Wonders

Embark on Phulay Bay’s exclusive Discover the Jurassic Paradise adventure—a curated journey inspired by Krabi’s prehistoric charm and its starring role in the upcoming Jurassic World film. Start with a stroll on Pak Bia Island’s powdery sands, hemmed in by towering karst cliffs and turquoise seas. Then kayak across the still waters of Klong Root—also known as Mirror Lake—where lush canopies reflect so perfectly, it feels like paddling through a painting. From secret lagoons to wild forest trails, this is Krabi in its raw, magical form.

A Taste of Thailand: Cook Like a Local

Food is at the heart of Thai culture, and there’s no better way to connect than by learning to cook like a local. At Phulay Bay, join a small, hands-on Thai cooking class that starts with hand-picking fresh herbs and produce. Discover how to balance sweet, sour, and spicy notes, pick up time-honoured kitchen techniques, and prepare classic dishes. The best bit? You’ll feast on your creations in a serene nook of the resort—often at the Chomtawan Bar—paired with sunset views and a soft sea breeze.

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Reconnect with Yourself at The Spa

Begin your day with yoga by the sea, where gentle Andaman waves and rustling palms set the rhythm for breathwork and meditation. Then retreat to The Spa at Phulay Bay, an expansive haven with 11 treatment rooms, vitality pools, steam and sauna facilities. Indulge in rituals drawn from Thai and global wellness traditions—whether it’s a warm herbal compress, sound therapy with singing bowls, or a detox session with local botanicals. It’s restoration, reimagined.

Muay Thai: A Cultural Workout

Blend fitness and tradition with Phulay Bay’s Muay Thai sessions. Held in a calm indoor-outdoor studio, these workouts are led by seasoned trainers and tailored to all skill levels. You’ll learn the art of Thai boxing—mastering punches, kicks, and elbow strikes—while uncovering stories behind Thailand’s national sport. It’s as invigorating for the body as it is enlightening for the mind.

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Walk with Giants: The Elephant Sanctuary Experience

In partnership with the Krabi Elephant House Sanctuary, Phulay Bay offers a respectful, deeply moving way to meet Thailand’s gentle giants. Spend your morning alongside rescued elephants: feed them, give them playful mud baths, or join them for a dip. Guided by passionate sanctuary workers and the resort’s dedicated team, this immersive experience highlights conservation efforts and forges connections that last long after you leave.

Plan the Extraordinary

At Phulay Bay, every moment is artfully crafted—where personal butlers, bespoke experiences, and Krabi’s natural splendour come together in seamless harmony. Whether you’re chasing cinematic landscapes, culinary adventures, or soulful Thai traditions, this is where you embrace the extraordinary.

Plan your journey to Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and let Krabi’s spirit become part of yours.


Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

Plan B Travel Jordan and Royal Jordanian Airlines recently joined hands to host a destination-focused webinar aimed at the Indian travel trade. Titled Master the Wonders of Jordan, the session attracted notable Indian travel agents, underlining Jordan’s growing appeal as a luxury travel destination for Indian travellers.

The webinar offered a comprehensive look at Jordan’s diverse tourism highlights — from the archaeological marvels of Petra, the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea, to the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum. Designed to equip travel professionals with deeper insights and practical tools, the session aimed to boost confidence in promoting and selling Jordan as a unique travel experience.

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Participants also received exclusive updates from Royal Jordanian Airlines, which showcased their enhanced connectivity, service upgrades, and tailored trade benefits for the Indian market — making Jordan even more accessible and attractive for outbound travellers.

Sharing thoughts on the initiative, Rana Abu Alhala, CEO of Plan B Travel & Tourism, said, “We aim to strengthen partnerships within the Indian travel fraternity. With Jordan’s exclusive offerings of legacy, adventure, and well-being experiences, we see great potential for tourism growth. This webinar was aimed at strengthening product knowledge and empowering the trade to position Jordan notably.”

To add to the excitement, participants stood a chance to win exclusive prizes from Royal Jordanian Airlines along with thoughtfully curated tokens of appreciation from Plan B Travel Jordan — turning the educational experience into a rewarding one.

As Jordan emerges as a compelling destination for Indian travellers, initiatives like these ensure travel agents are well-equipped to inspire their clients with unforgettable journeys.

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