Air India names former Ethiopian chief as new CEO

Dhaka: Air India has appointed former Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, marking a major leadership change as the Tata Group-owned carrier enters the next phase of its transformation.

In an official announcement on August 5, the Indian national airline said Gebremariam will succeed Campbell Wilson, who led Air India through its initial turnaround following its return to the Tata Group.

According to the airline, the Board conducted a comprehensive global search to identify Wilson's successor, evaluating both internal and external candidates before unanimously selecting Gebremariam for the role.

A leader with a proven track record in large-scale airline transformation, operational excellence, safety, customer service, and profitable growth was sought for the position, it added.

Gebremariam is widely recognized for leading Ethiopian Airlines Group through more than a decade of expansion, transforming the carrier into Africa's largest and one of its most profitable airline groups. During his tenure, the airline's revenue grew more than fourfold, while its fleet nearly tripled in size.

His experience spans long-haul network expansion, hub development, engineering, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), aviation training, workforce development, and operational reliability.

Air India said the appointment comes as it shifts from its stabilization and integration phase toward accelerated growth and execution. The carrier expects the new chief executive to strengthen its international network, improve operational performance, and reinforce safety and service standards.

Tata Sons Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran said Gebremariam's experience in building a globally competitive airline group made him well suited to lead Air India's next stage of development.

Gebremariam described the appointment as an honor and said he looked forward to working with the Board, employees, and industry stakeholders to build a world-class global airline representing India's growing economic strength.

Air India said it remains committed to supporting India's civil aviation ambitions by expanding international connectivity, strengthening hub operations, and maintaining high safety and regulatory standards.

It added that employees across flight operations, engineering, ground services, and corporate functions will continue to receive greater emphasis on training, career development, and a performance-driven workplace culture.

The airline thanked Wilson for overseeing its initial revitalization, including fleet modernization, corporate governance reforms, and the integration of multiple airline businesses under the Air India Group.

Further details regarding Gebremariam's onboarding timeline and leadership transition will be announced at a later date.