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.

image

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.

image

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.


CGH Earth Saha Unveils Coorg Wild Walk – A Wilderness Retreat at Nagarhole

CGH Earth Saha Unveils Coorg Wild Walk – A Wilderness Retreat at Nagarhole

By Author

Published on March 10, 2025

CGH Earth Saha has launched its ninth villa, Coorg Wild Walk, adjacent to Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka. Nestled within a lush coffee estate near Kutta’s Nanachi Gate, this secluded four-bedroom villa offers travelers an intimate and immersive experience in one of India’s most pristine wildlife reserves, home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and a thriving bird population.

Designed as a peaceful retreat, the villa blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Expansive picture windows frame uninterrupted views of the coffee plantation and forest, while the semi-open lounge and dining areas allow guests to stay connected to nature. Infused with Kodava craftsmanship, the interiors add a touch of local charm to the space. Guests can book individual rooms or reserve the entire villa for a private escape.

image

The experience at Coorg Wild Walk extends beyond the villa. Guided nature walks, birdwatching excursions, and safaris in Nagarhole offer thrilling encounters with wildlife. The on-site culinary offerings celebrate the flavors of Kodagu and Karnataka, with locally sourced ingredients shaping an authentic dining experience.

"We are thrilled to welcome guests to Coorg Wild Walk. Nestled within a coffee plantation and just minutes from the Nanachi Gate of Nagarhole National Park, this retreat offers an unmatched connection with nature. Whether it's waking up to bird calls, sipping estate-grown coffee on the verandah, or embarking on curated wildlife experiences, the thrill of the forest is ever-present," said George Joseph, Vice President, Operations – CGH Earth.

image

With a strong focus on sustainability and cultural authenticity, CGH Earth Saha continues its legacy of crafting meaningful travel experiences. Coorg Wild Walk promises a unique blend of adventure and serenity, making it an ideal getaway for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts.

More details at CGH Earth Saha


IITM Ahmedabad 2025 Opens with Exciting Opportunities for the Travel Industry

IITM Ahmedabad 2025 Opens with Exciting Opportunities for the Travel Industry

By Author

Published on March 10, 2025

Ahmedabad is set to host the much-anticipated India International Travel Mart (IITM) from March 7-9, 2025, at the YMCA International Centre. As one of India’s premier travel and tourism exhibitions, IITM continues to be a key platform connecting industry professionals, destinations, and travel brands from across the globe.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, IITM Ahmedabad showcases over 100 exhibitors from 15 Indian states, highlighting diverse tourism offerings, from cultural and adventure travel to wellness and luxury experiences. Tourism boards, hotels, airlines, and tour operators are actively engaging with buyers and travel enthusiasts, fostering collaborations and business opportunities.

image

This year's event features B2B networking sessions, exclusive travel offers, and a hosted buyer program for Gujarat-based travel agents. With Nepal Tourism as the Partner Country and Tourism Malaysia as the Feature Country, the exhibition provides an excellent opportunity to explore global and domestic travel trends.

Industry leaders emphasized the significance of IITM in shaping the future of travel. Rohit Hangal, Director of Sphere TravelMedia, highlighted the exhibition’s role in innovation and partnership building, while Sanjay Hakhu underscored India's growing outbound travel market and its impact on the industry.

As the travel sector continues its strong recovery, IITM Ahmedabad stands as a crucial meeting point for stakeholders, offering unparalleled networking and business prospects. The upcoming editions of IITM will continue to connect travel professionals across India, further strengthening the tourism industry.

image


Celebrate Women’s Day with a Luxurious ELIVAAS Retreat

Celebrate Women’s Day with a Luxurious ELIVAAS Retreat

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 2, 2025

This Women’s Day, take a well-deserved break and immerse yourself in unparalleled luxury with an ELIVAAS retreat. Whether you’re looking for a solo escape, a fun-filled girls’ trip, or a cherished mother-daughter getaway, ELIVAAS' exclusive private villas promise the perfect balance of relaxation, indulgence, and world-class hospitality.

With handpicked destinations across North Goa, Udaipur, Nainital, Shimla, and Alibaug, each retreat offers a seamless blend of comfort, exclusivity, and breathtaking landscapes.

Why an ELIVAAS Retreat is the Perfect Women’s Day Gift

Unmatched Luxury
Thoughtfully designed villas that offer the ultimate comfort and exclusivity.

Tailored Experiences
From wellness retreats to adventure-filled escapes, every stay is curated to match your preferences.

Breathtaking Destinations
Relax and rejuvenate in stunning locations, perfect for a special celebration.

Choose Your Exclusive Getaway:

North Goa – Experience opulent coastal luxury in a private villa.

image

Udaipur – Soak in the royal charm of Rajasthan with an indulgent stay.

image

Nainital – Rejuvenate in the serene embrace of nature.

image

Shimla – Unwind in the majestic Himalayan landscapes.

image

Alibaug – Escape to the tranquil shores of Alibaug.

image

This Women’s Day, honor yourself and the women who inspire you with a bespoke retreat that celebrates strength, elegance, and joy.

It’s time to indulge, relax, and celebrate—you deserve it.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.