Air India has announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, succeeding Campbell Wilson. The appointment marks a significant milestone in the airline's transformation as it moves into its next phase of growth and global expansion.

The decision was approved by Air India's Board of Directors following an extensive global search led by a dedicated Board committee. The selection process included both internal and international candidates, with the Board unanimously choosing Tewolde Gebremariam for his proven leadership, operational expertise, and experience in leading large-scale airline transformations. Tewolde is widely recognised for his leadership at Ethiopian Airlines Group, where he served as CEO for more than a decade. During his tenure, he transformed the airline into Africa's largest and most profitable airline group, increasing its revenue by more than four times while nearly tripling its fleet size.

His experience spans airline operations, safety, international network expansion, hub development, engineering, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), aviation training, workforce development, and long-term business growth. As Air India moves beyond its turnaround phase into a period focused on expansion and profitability, the airline believes Tewolde's experience will help strengthen international connectivity, improve operational reliability, enhance customer service, and reinforce safety standards.

Commenting on the appointment, N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, said:

"On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome Tewolde to Air India. Having completed the initial phase of stabilization, integration, and fleet commitments under Campbell's guidance, Air India is now entering a critical execution and expansion era. 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. His 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."

Sharing his thoughts on the new role, Tewolde Gebremariam, Incoming CEO & Managing Director, said:

"It is a profound honour to be entrusted with leading Air India at such a historic moment in its journey. Air India carries an incredible legacy, and the opportunity to build a world-class global airline that reflects India’s extraordinary economic potential is uniquely exciting. I look forward to working closely with Chairman Chandrasekaran, the Board, our employees, and all government and industry partners to deliver exceptional operational reliability, warm Indian hospitality, and sustained long-term growth."

Air India said the leadership transition aligns with its long-term strategy of strengthening India's position as a global aviation hub while supporting the country's civil aviation ambitions. Under Tewolde's leadership, the airline plans to continue investing in operational excellence, aviation safety, employee development, and customer experience.

The airline also reiterated its commitment to its workforce, stating that employees across flight operations, engineering, ground services, and corporate functions will continue to benefit from enhanced training, career development opportunities, and a performance-driven work culture. Passengers can expect continued improvements in on-time performance, upgraded aircraft cabins, enhanced hospitality, and stronger global connectivity as Air India advances its transformation journey.

The Board also expressed its gratitude to Campbell Wilson for leading the airline through a crucial phase of its revival. During his tenure, he oversaw the integration of Air India entities, initiated major fleet modernisation programmes, strengthened corporate governance, and laid the foundation for the airline's future growth. With fresh leadership, strong financial backing, and a clear long-term vision, Air India believes it is well positioned to continue its journey towards becoming a world-class global airline.