Air India has appointed aviation veteran Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director (MD), ushering in a new phase of leadership at the Tata Group-owned airline as it accelerates its global transformation.
Gebremariam will succeed Campbell Wilson, who will step down next month after completing his tenure as the airline’s CEO and MD.
One of the aviation industry’s most respected leaders, Gebremariam is best known for transforming Ethiopian Airlines into Africa’s largest, fastest-growing and most profitable airline, earning global recognition for expanding its international network, strengthening operational efficiency and building one of the world’s most successful airline groups.
His appointment comes at a pivotal time for Air India, which is in the midst of a multi-billion-dollar transformation programme involving fleet modernisation, network expansion, service upgrades and operational restructuring under the Tata Group.
Welcoming the appointment, N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, said Gebremariam’s leadership credentials make him the ideal choice to steer the airline through its next phase of growth.
“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," Chandrasekaran said.
He added that Air India is entering a crucial phase focused on execution and global expansion.
“Tewolde’s operational expertise, commitment to safety and vision for hub development will be instrumental as we establish Air India as a premier global carrier and a source of national pride," he said.
With Gebremariam at the helm, Air India is expected to further strengthen its ambitions of becoming a world-class global airline while enhancing connectivity, operational excellence and customer experience.
In a statement, Air India said, “The Board of Directors of Air India today announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam as the airline’s Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, succeeding Campbell Wilson. This executive transition marks a pivotal juncture in Air India’s transformation journey to become a world-class, leading global airline. The Board conducted a comprehensive search to identify the next leader for Air India, overseen by a dedicated Board committee. The committee rigorously evaluated internal as well as highly accomplished external candidates from across the world."
