Air India has appointed Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, succeeding Campbell Wilson, as the Tata Group-owned airline enters the next phase of its transformation aimed at becoming a leading global carrier.
The appointment, announced by Air India’s Board of Directors, follows an extensive global search overseen by a dedicated Board committee, which evaluated both internal and international candidates. The Board said it sought a leader with proven experience in managing large-scale airline transformations, driving operational excellence, strengthening safety and customer service, and delivering sustainable growth.
Veteran Aviation Leader Takes the Helm
Gebremariam is regarded as one of the aviation industry’s most accomplished executives. During his tenure as Chief Executive of Ethiopian Airlines Group, he led one of the sector’s most successful expansion stories, transforming the airline into Africa’s largest and one of its most profitable carriers.
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Under his leadership, Ethiopian Airlines expanded its global network significantly, increased revenues more than fourfold and nearly tripled its fleet while strengthening its maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), cargo and aviation training capabilities.
Air India said his experience in managing complex airline operations, developing international hub strategies and building high-performance organisations aligns closely with the airline’s long-term ambitions.
Air India Enters Growth Phase
The appointment comes as Air India transitions from its initial turnaround and integration phase into a period focused on operational execution, international expansion and profitability.
The airline said Gebremariam’s expertise in long-haul network development, operational reliability, safety management and workforce development will support its objective of establishing India as a major global aviation hub.
Chairman Chandrasekaran Welcomes Appointment
Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, said the airline is now entering a critical phase of growth.
“On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome Tewolde to Air India. Having completed the initial phase of stabilisation, integration and fleet commitments under Campbell’s guidance, Air India is now entering a critical execution and expansion era. Tewolde’s track record in building one of the world’s most efficient and profitable airline groups makes him uniquely suited to lead Air India.”
He added that Gebremariam’s operational expertise, commitment to safety and experience in developing global aviation hubs would play a key role in positioning Air India among the world’s leading airlines.
Focus on Reliability and Customer Experience
Responding to his appointment, Gebremariam described the opportunity as a privilege at a defining moment in the airline’s history.
“It is a profound honour to be entrusted with leading Air India at such a historic moment in its journey. Air India carries an incredible legacy, and the opportunity to build a world-class global airline that reflects India’s extraordinary economic potential is uniquely exciting.”
He said his priorities would include delivering operational reliability, strengthening Air India’s renowned hospitality and supporting the airline’s long-term sustainable growth.
Supporting India’s Aviation Vision
Air India said the leadership transition reinforces its commitment to supporting India’s civil aviation ambitions and the country’s broader economic development goals.
The airline intends to continue working closely with aviation regulators and government authorities to enhance international connectivity, strengthen safety standards and contribute to India’s emergence as a global aviation and logistics hub.
Employees Central to Transformation
The airline also emphasised that employee development will remain central to its transformation strategy.
Under Gebremariam’s leadership, Air India plans to continue investing in workforce training, career development, engineering excellence and operational capabilities across flight operations, ground handling, engineering and corporate functions.
Passengers can also expect continued improvements in on-time performance, fleet modernisation, cabin products, customer service and international connectivity as the airline accelerates its transformation programme.
Board Thanks Campbell Wilson
The Board acknowledged the contribution of outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson, who led Air India through a significant period following its return to the Tata Group.
During his tenure, Wilson oversaw the integration of Air India and Vistara, initiated one of the aviation industry’s largest aircraft acquisition programmes, strengthened corporate governance and laid the operational foundations for the airline’s long-term growth strategy.
Air India said details regarding Gebremariam’s onboarding and leadership transition timeline will be announced separately.
With fresh leadership, a substantial aircraft order, significant capital investment and an ongoing fleet modernisation programme, the airline believes it is well positioned to strengthen its position in the global aviation market while advancing its ambition of becoming a world-class airline.
