Air India’s Board of Directors has announced the immediate appointment of aviation veteran Tewolde Gebremariam as the airline’s new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. He succeeds Campbell Wilson, who has led the Tata Group-owned carrier since its privatization in 2022.
The appointment marks a pivotal turning point for Air India as it closes the book on its foundational turnaround phase and accelerates into an era of aggressive growth, operational integrity, and profitable execution.
N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, welcomed the decision with great enthusiasm, stating that Gebremariam’s proven track record in building one of the world’s most efficient and profitable airline groups makes him uniquely qualified to lead Air India into its next chapter.
Tewolde Gebremariam is widely recognized as one of the aviation industry’s most esteemed and successful executives. During his 11-year tenure as Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines from 2011 to 2022, he spearheaded a multibillion-dollar expansion that transformed the regional carrier into Africa’s largest and most profitable airline group.
His extensive expertise extends far beyond managing complex operational environments, expanding competitive global hubs, and driving cultural transformation. Throughout his career, he successfully navigated severe crises—including SARS, MERS, Ebola, the Boeing 737 MAX grounding, and the COVID-19 pandemic—maintaining profitability without accepting government bailouts or resorting to employee layoffs.
Prior to finalizing this role, reports indicated Tewolde was selected as CEO of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) following its July 2026 privatization, pending security clearances. Ultimately, the Air India Board secured his leadership to steer its massive global ambitions.
With today’s official announcement on August 5, 2026, the Air India Board of Directors has successfully confirmed and finalized his appointment.
Consequently, the incoming CEO takes the helm during a challenging period for Air India. The airline is currently navigating financial losses, heightened regulatory scrutiny following the tragic 2025 crash that claimed 260 lives, and operational disruptions stemming from regional conflicts affecting international routes.
Tewolde is widely expected to bring the critical leadership capabilities required for Air India’s next phase of development.
“We are now entering a critical era of execution and expansion,” Chandrasekaran remarked, noting that Air India has successfully completed its initial phase of stabilization, integration, and fleet commitments under Wilson’s leadership. “Tewolde’s operational expertise, unwavering commitment to safety, and vision for hub development will be instrumental in establishing Air India as a premier global carrier and a source of national pride.”
Accepting the role, Tewolde expressed deep enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. ”Air India carries an incredible legacy, and the opportunity to build a world-class global airline that reflects India’s extraordinary economic potential is deeply exciting,” Tewolde stated.
He added that his primary priorities will be ensuring exceptional operational reliability, elevating service standards through warm Indian hospitality, and fostering sustainable long-term growth in partnership with employees, government authorities, and industry stakeholders.
According to the board directors, Tewolde’s appointment aligns seamlessly with Air India’s broader mission to support India’s civil aviation aspirations and cement the nation’s status as a premier global aviation hub.
The airline is currently executing one of the world’s largest fleet modernization initiatives, featuring orders for 600 new aircraft, comprehensive cabin retrofits, and the development of South Asia’s largest aviation training academy.
