- Tewolde Gebremariam now takes over as Air India's new CEO, facing financial and safety turbulence.
- Air India's board unanimously chose Gebremariam after an extensive search, citing his leadership and operational expertise to steer the airline's "next phase of growth".
- N Chandrasekaran, Air India chairman, stated that the airline is entering a critical execution and expansion era after initial stabilisation under Campbell's guidance.
- Gebremariam previously served as CEO of Ethiopian Airlines for over a decade, growing it into one of Africa's largest airlines.
- N Chandrasekaran emphasized the importance of the airline's initial phase of stabilisation, integration, and fleet commitments under Campbell's guidance.
Air India has appointed Tewolde Gebremariam as its new CEO as the airline faces significant challenges, including heavy financial losses and the aftermath of a crash that resulted in 260 fatalities. Gebremariam, who previously led Ethiopian Airlines, is expected to guide Air India through a critical phase of growth.14
The airline, which was acquired by the Tata Group from the Indian government in 2022, has been experiencing operational turbulence. It operates a fleet of 198 aircraft, conducting nearly 5,000 weekly flights to 91 destinations globally. N Chandrasekaran, Air India chairman, emphasized the importance of Gebremariam's leadership, stating, "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."35
Campbell Wilson, the former CEO, had indicated plans to step down in 2026, preparing the airline for a smooth transition. His tenure focused on stabilizing the airline post-acquisition, and now Gebremariam's appointment marks a pivotal moment for Air India as it seeks to enhance its operational capabilities and address ongoing challenges.
With Gebremariam's extensive experience in the aviation sector, he is expected to leverage his expertise to navigate the airline through its current turbulence and set a course for future growth.
“Gebremariam, who led Ethiopian Airlines for over a decade, was unanimously chosen by Air India's board after an extensive search. Chairman N Chandrasekaran said the airline is entering a 'critical execution and expansion era' after completing initial stabilisation under Campbell's guidance.”
bbc.com
