Singapore Airlines’ new joint-venture carrier with Indian industrial giant TATA is to be named Vistara.
The start-up domestic airline is expected to begin operations in October after delivery of its first Airbus A320 next month.
The Delhi-based, full-service airline plans to increase its fleet to 20 aircraft, including A320neos, by the end of its fifth year of operation.
The route network has yet to be unveiled but the airline is expected to run more than 80 flights a week in its first year of operation
The start of services is subject to the Indian civil aviation authority’s approval, which is examining the airline’s application for an air operator’s permit.
The move to take on the likes of Air India and Jet Airways follows the June launch of a Tata Group-backed low cost carrier in conjunction with Air Asia.
SIA commercial vie-president Swee Wah Mak said: “From a global investor’s perspective the Indian aviation sector has a lot of potential for growth and I am delighted that SIA now has a fruitful role to play here.
“SIA’s world renowned tradition of service excellence will contribute to the creation of the finest flying experience in the Indian skies through Vistara.”
Prasad Menon, chairman of parent body Tata SIA Airlines, said: “Vistara will redefine the way we travel in India. I can confidently say that Tata’s and SIA’s legendary hospitality standards and service excellence will make Vistara a natural choice for passengers.”