he recently announced merger between Air India and Vistara has sparked curiosity about the future of the Axis Bank Vistara credit cards, which offer exclusive rewards for Vistara travelers. With both airlines set to operate as a single entity under the Air India brand, Axis Bank Vistara credit cardholders are eager to know if and how their credit card benefits will be affected.

Background: Axis Bank Vistara Credit Cards

Axis Bank’s Vistara co-branded credit cards are popular among frequent travelers, offering benefits like Club Vistara points, complimentary business class tickets, airport lounge access, and discounts on Vistara flights. These cards have been an attractive option for Indian flyers, providing travel perks and rewards tailored specifically for Vistara’s loyal customer base.

Possible Impacts on Axis Bank Vistara Credit Cardholders

As Air India and Vistara merge, several scenarios could unfold regarding the Axis Bank Vistara cards. Here are some of the key changes cardholders may see:

1. Transition of Loyalty Points from Club Vistara to Air India’s Program

• Currently, Axis Bank Vistara credit cardholders earn Club Vistara points, which can be redeemed for Vistara flights and upgrades. However, with the merger, there may be a shift from Club Vistara points to Air India’s loyalty program, Flying Returns.
• The process might involve automatically converting Club Vistara points to Flying Returns miles at a pre-determined rate. This could provide cardholders with a larger pool of domestic and international travel options, given Air India’s extensive route network.

2. Possible Changes in Complimentary Flight Tickets

• Axis Bank Vistara credit cardholders currently enjoy complimentary flight tickets on meeting certain spending criteria. If Vistara is fully absorbed into Air India, these complimentary tickets may transition to free or discounted Air India flights instead.
• Whether these benefits will retain the same value or structure is yet to be confirmed, but cardholders may have the flexibility to choose from more flight routes through Air India’s network.

3. Updates to Airport Lounge Access and Other Perks

• Currently, Axis Bank Vistara cards offer access to select airport lounges, a valuable perk for frequent travelers. Depending on the outcome of the merger, the lounge network may expand to include more locations under Air India’s partnership lounges.
• Other travel-related perks, such as priority boarding or additional baggage allowances, might also be updated to align with Air India’s benefits structure.

4. Changes to Reward Redemption Options

• The merger could lead to a more diversified set of redemption options, potentially allowing Axis Bank Vistara cardholders to redeem points for both domestic and international flights with Air India or its partner airlines, including Star Alliance members.
• This change would be especially beneficial for travelers who frequently fly abroad, as it would open up new possibilities for redeeming miles across a larger network.

What Axis Bank Cardholders Can Expect in the Short Term

For now, Axis Bank Vistara credit cardholders can expect business as usual. The merger process may take time to finalize, and any changes to the loyalty program or card benefits are likely to be rolled out gradually. Axis Bank, along with Vistara and Air India, may notify cardholders well in advance of any adjustments.

Should You Continue with Axis Bank Vistara Cards?

If you’re currently enjoying the travel benefits of an Axis Bank Vistara credit card, there’s no immediate need to switch. The potential transition to a new loyalty structure under Air India could actually increase your options, especially if the Flying Returns program brings added flexibility in reward redemptions and travel destinations.

How to Make the Most of Your Axis Bank Vistara Credit Card Right Now

Until further details of the merger are announced, here are some ways to maximize your Axis Bank Vistara credit card benefits:

• Redeem Club Vistara points for Vistara flights and upgrades while they’re still available.
• Take advantage of lounge access benefits on both domestic and international routes.
• Meet the spending requirements for complimentary flight tickets as soon as possible to ensure you get your rewards.