Vistara is a full-service Indian airline that has become a key player in the aviation sector. Launched in 2014, it is a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines. However, from November 12, 2024, it will merge with Air India and become a part of the latter. The airline’s logo embodies its ethos and commitment to excellence. This article delves into the history and evolution of the Vistara logo. It highlights the design philosophy and the evolution timeline of the logo.
The Genesis of the Vistara Logo (2014 – Present)
The name “Vistara” is derived from the Sanskrit word “vistaar,” meaning “limitless expanse.” It aptly encapsulates the airline’s vision of providing a premium flying experience that transcends traditional boundaries. The logo features an octagram, an eight-pointed star symbolising balance, excellence, and good fortune. This design choice was influenced by ancient Indian symbols known as Yantras, which represent an unbounded universe in a mathematically perfect form. Below the octagram appeared the brand name in purple and in a combination of uppercase and lowercase.
The logo’s interwoven golden lines suggest movement and dynamism, which resonated with the fluidity of air travel. The colour palette predominantly features deep aubergine and gold, which have been chosen for their luxurious connotations and distinctiveness in a market often dominated by red and blue hues.
Reception and Impact
The Vistara logo has been well-received for its modern yet culturally resonant design. It effectively communicates the airline’s commitment to quality service while being there in a competitive market. The simplicity and elegance of the logo have contributed to establishing Vistara as a premium airline in India. It appeals to both domestic and international travellers.
The uniform design for cabin crew was created by fashion house Abraham & Thakore, which further complemented the logo’s aesthetic by incorporating traditional elements into contemporary fashion. This alignment between branding and service experience has reinforced customer loyalty and brand recognition.
The Elements of the Vistara Logo
Symbol
At the heart of the Vistara logo is an octagram, an eight-pointed star that symbolises balance, excellence, and good fortune. This design was inspired by ancient Indian symbols known as Yantras, which depict an unbounded universe in a mathematically perfect form. The continuous and overlapping lines of the octagram convey a sense of movement and dynamism. Each point of the star subtly forms a ‘V’ and reinforces the name and identity of the airline.
Font
Vistara employs a custom-drawn wordmark that combines both uppercase and lowercase letters. This unique typography reflects a modern yet approachable aesthetic. The font is designed to be easily legible and conveys a sense of elegance and sophistication. The design team aimed for a hand-drawn quality to impart warmth and personality to the brand.
Colour
The colour scheme of the Vistara logo is primarily composed of deep aubergine and gold. The deep aubergine colour stands out in crowded airport environments to make Vistara’s crew easily recognizable. It also evokes a sense of luxury and sophistication and aligns with the airline’s commitment to providing premium service.
Gold accents complement the aubergine and add an element of elegance and warmth to the overall design. Together, these colours create a visual identity that is distinctive and memorable.
The History of Vistara
The story of Vistara began in 2014 when Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines decided to collaborate to create a new airline that would redefine air travel in India. The Tata Group has a long-standing legacy in aviation for having founded Tata Airlines in the 1930s, which later became Air India. However, after nationalisation, the group sought to re-enter the aviation market.
In 2012, after the lifting of foreign investment restrictions in India, Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines sought approval for their joint venture. They received this approval in October 2013, which led to the incorporation of TATA SIA Airlines Limited on November 5, 2013. The airline was named “Vistara,” derived from the Sanskrit word vistaar, meaning “limitless expanse.” The name symbolised the vastness of the sky and the limitless possibilities of air travel.
Vistara commenced operations on January 9, 2015, with its inaugural flight from Delhi to Mumbai. The airline positioned itself as a full-service carrier by offering a premium flying experience characterised by exceptional service, modern aircraft, and comfortable cabins. From the outset, Vistara aimed to provide Indian travellers with a seamless and personalised flying experience that combined Tata’s legendary hospitality with the service excellence of Singapore Airlines.
In its early days, Vistara operated a fleet primarily consisting of Airbus A320 aircraft and quickly expanded its network across domestic destinations. By mid-2016, it had carried over two million passengers and was recognised for its high on-time performance and customer satisfaction.
As Vistara grew, it expanded its domestic footprint significantly while also eyeing international markets. On August 6, 2019, Vistara launched its first international flight from Delhi to Singapore. This expansion into international routes was facilitated by the acquisition of Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft previously used by Jet Airways.
By December 2023, Vistara served over 50 destinations worldwide, including key international routes across Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The airline’s fleet had also grown to include Airbus A321neo and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, which enhanced its capability to serve both domestic and international travellers.
Throughout its journey, Vistara has received numerous accolades for its service quality and operational efficiency. It has consistently ranked high in customer satisfaction surveys and has been recognised for its innovative approach to air travel. The airline’s commitment to sustainability has also been evident; it has explored initiatives such as using sustainable aviation fuel in its operations.
In recent developments, following Tata Group’s acquisition of Air India in January 2022, discussions began to initiate a merger between Vistara and Air India. The Competition Commission of India approved this merger in September 2023. The merger will integrate Vistara’s operations into Air India while maintaining its distinct brand identity initially.
Interesting Facts About Vistara
- Vistara Airlines is a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines, where Tata Sons holds a 51% stake while the rest is held by Singapore Airlines.
- The name “Vistara” is derived from the Sanskrit word “vistaar,” meaning “limitless expanse.” This reflects the airline’s vision of providing a premium flying experience that encompasses the vastness of the sky and the endless possibilities of air travel.
- The maiden flight operated by Vistara was on January 9, 2015, from Delhi to Mumbai.
- Vistara is a full-service airline where passengers do not have to pay for food or water inside the aircraft, unlike the low-cost airlines.
- Vistara has three classes: business, premium economy, and economy.
- The economy class in Vistara has 20% more legroom than its competitors.
- The ground handling and engineering services for Vistara are handled by Air India.
- Vistara has expanded beyond the shores of India to destinations in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
- Vistara and Air India will merge, and from November 12, 2024, all flights will be operated by Air India.
Finally
The Vistara logo is a testament to thoughtful design that combines cultural significance with modern aesthetics. The logo has played a crucial role in shaping Vistara’s identity as a premium airline.