SINGAPORE - Indian carrier Vistara, a tie-up between Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Indian conglomerate Tata, has obtained approval to start operations.

Receiving the Air Operator Permit (AOP) from India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation is a "significant milestone as it is the final step in a highly technical and complex compliance process", Vistara said in a statement on Monday night.

The airline, which will operate a fleet of Airbus single-aisle aircraft, will announce soon the start of sales, routes and schedules.

Mr Prasad Menon, the airline's chairman, said: "We are all looking forward to the first flight with excitement. We are aware of the expectations we have to live up to and look forward to shaping a success story in Indian aviation with the realisation of this dream."

The airline's chief executive officer, Mr Phee Teik Yeoh, said: "I am delighted that we have successfully cleared the final requirement and secured the permit... All our energies now are going to be concentrated towards fulfilling the Vistara brand promise. Our focus on customer service excellence coupled with unique product offerings will ensure seamless travel experience to our customers."

Vistara is 51 per cent owned by the Tata group and 49 per cent by SIA.