Our Bureau
Mumbai
Air India has appointed Ethiopian Airlines veteran Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership change as the Tata Group-owned airline seeks to accelerate its transformation amid mounting operational, financial and regulatory challenges. He will succeed Campbell Wilson, who led the airline through the initial phase of its revival following Tata Group’s acquisition.
Gebremariam, widely credited with transforming Ethiopian Airlines into Africa’s largest and one of its most successful carriers, brings more than three decades of aviation experience. During his tenure at Ethiopian Airlines, he oversaw rapid fleet expansion, strengthened the airline’s global network and steered it through crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the aftermath of the 2019 Boeing 737 MAX accident.
His appointment comes at a critical juncture for Air India, which is working to restore passenger confidence following increased regulatory scrutiny, operational disruptions and financial losses. The airline is also navigating delays in aircraft deliveries, fleet modernisation and the integration of its merged airline operations under the Tata Group’s restructuring plan. Geopolitical challenges, including restrictions on Pakistan’s airspace and instability in West Asia, have further impacted international operations and profitability.
Industry experts view Gebremariam’s crisis-management experience and proven record of building a globally competitive airline as key strengths that could help Air India move from expansion to sustained operational excellence. Before accepting the Air India role, the former Ethiopian Airlines chief had reportedly been considered for the top position at Pakistan International Airlines, underlining his standing in the global aviation industry.
The appointment reflects Tata Group’s continued commitment to rebuilding Air India into a world-class full-service carrier, with safety, service quality, operational efficiency and long-term profitability expected to remain at the centre of the airline’s next phase of transformation.