Air India has appointed aviation veteran Tewolde Gebremariam as its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, marking a pivotal leadership transition as the Tata Group-owned carrier enters the next phase of its long-term transformation.
Air India has named former Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. He will assume office on 1 October 2026, succeeding Campbell Wilson, who will step down on 30 September after leading the airline through its initial transformation following privatisation. The appointment, approved by the Board of Air India, comes as the carrier shifts its focus from rebuilding its foundations to strengthening operational excellence and sustainable growth.
A Proven Aviation Leader Takes the Helm
Gebremariam brings more than three decades of aviation leadership experience, having transformed Ethiopian Airlines into Africa’s largest and one of its most successful airline groups during his tenure as Group CEO. Under his leadership, the airline expanded its global network, modernised its fleet and strengthened its cargo operations while successfully navigating major industry disruptions, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
Welcoming the appointment, Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran said Gebremariam’s proven ability to build a world-class airline and lead complex transformation initiatives made him the right choice for Air India’s next chapter. Gebremariam said he was honoured to join the airline at a defining moment in its journey and looked forward to building on the strong foundation established over the past four years.
Leading the Next Phase of Air India’s Transformation
The leadership transition comes at a significant moment for Air India as it continues its multi-year transformation under the Tata Group. While the airline has modernised its fleet, strengthened its network and completed major organisational milestones, it continues to navigate operational, financial and regulatory challenges in an increasingly competitive global aviation market. Gebremariam’s appointment signals Air India’s commitment to combining global aviation expertise with long-term strategic execution as it works towards becoming a world-class international carrier.
Sources: Air India Press Release; Reuters
