Vistara to temporarily reduce number of flights to cut delays, cancellations

The airline has been facing several complaints from flyers over inconvenience faced because of delays and cancellation of flights

Tata group-owned domestic carrier Vistara on April 1 said that it will temporarily reduce the number of flights under operation to "ensure adequate connectivity across its network" as the airline claimed it is facing issues of "crew unavailability".

In the last few days, the airline has been facing several complaints of delays and cancellations.  It acknowledged the complaints and said that it is taking appropriate action to address the concerns.

“We have had a significant number of flight cancellations and delays in the past few days due to various reasons including crew unavailability. We acknowledge and are deeply concerned about the inconvenience this has caused to our customers,” a statement issued by a Vistara spokesperson said.

Further, it said, "Having said that, our teams are working towards minimizing the discomfort to the customers. We have decided to temporarily reduce the number of flights we operate, to ensure adequate connectivity across our network."

Additionally, the airline said it is also deploying larger aircraft such as B787-9 Dreamliner and A321neo on select domestic routes to combine flights or accommodate more number of customers, wherever it is possible.

"Furthermore, we are offering alternate flight options or refunds to affected customer, as applicable," it said.

The Tata-backed airline said it will resume operation of regular capacity "very soon".

The airline has come under severe criticism because of the delays and cancellations. According to some reports, around 49 flights were cancelled on April 1.

Commuters took to social media platform X to express their frustration.

A user said, “Pathetic first you cancelled uK850 for some operational reasons. Now UK 840 has been delayed extensively by 4 hours and no communication sent over. Management please address this.”

To which the airline responded, “We regret to learn of your disappointment. Flight UK 840 is delayed due to operational reasons and we apologise for the inconvenience caused. While our endeavour has always been to run our operations on time, such delays are unprecedented. Rest assured, we will expedite the process at our end. We appreciate your kind understanding and hope to serve you better. Thanks, Lehar (2/2)

Another account said, “Booked UK761 today morning for attending US Visa interview in Kolkata. I have applied for US Visa during last year and chose Kolkata since waiting period was less (7 months). Now, the flight got delayed without a clarity about the reschedule time.”

@airvistara booked UK761 today morning for attending US Visa interview in Kolkata. I have applied for US Visa during last year and chose Kolkata since waiting period was less (7 months). Now, the flight got delayed without a clarity about the reschedule time.

— Rahul K (@nairrahulk) April 1, 2024

Vistara apologised and said, “We concur with your feelings. We understand that you have flown to the destination. However, it would not be possible for us to extend you any compensation as we could only offer either a full refund or an alternate flight in such an unfortunate event.,”