Ever since the merger of Air India and Vistara was announced, the future of the co-branded Air India and Vistara credit cards has been a topic of discussion. Many speculations have emerged, and some have come true. However, even months after the merger, the atmosphere of devaluation and uncertainty continues. The latest development is the removal of renewal and milestone benefits from the IDFC Vistara Credit Card.
2026 Updates
March
The latest update brings a major restriction under the fair usage policy, effective 1st April 2026, by capping rewards on select categories. Transactions on government services, education, jewellery, and gift vouchers will now earn just 1 Maharaja Point, compared to the earlier 6 points. These categories were earlier popular for earning higher rewards, especially on big spends, so this change significantly impacts the card’s overall value.
This move further weakens what was once a rewarding offering, particularly for users who planned their spends around these categories to maximize returns.
February
Earlier, it was announced that the Club Vistara IDFC FIRST Credit Card would be completely discontinued and become unusable from 31st March 2026. However, cardholders have now been informed that, based on updated communication from Air India, the card will remain active and usable until 30th September 2026.
Cardholders can continue using their Club Vistara IDFC FIRST Credit Card normally until 30th September 2026. All regular transactions will go through as usual, and you will keep earning spend-based Maharaja Points on eligible purchases during this extended period. This ensures there is no immediate disruption to your card usage or rewards accumulation.
However, milestone-based ticket vouchers will not be issued for spends made during this extension phase. While you can still earn regular reward points, the additional travel voucher benefits linked to spending milestones will no longer apply. After 30th September 2026, the card will be officially closed as part of the planned transition.
Bottom Line
The Club Vistara IDFC FIRST Credit Card is no longer the premium travel product it once was. While the extension till 30th September 2026 provides temporary relief and continuity for earning Maharaja Points, the removal of milestone and renewal benefits significantly impacts its overall appeal.
With ongoing restructuring after the Air India–Vistara merger and multiple changes across co-branded airline cards, more updates may follow. Cardholders should closely evaluate whether continuing usage makes sense or if it’s time to consider alternative travel credit cards.