Air India Appoints Former Ethiopian Airlines CEO to Lead Next Growth Phase

Air India has announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, marking a major leadership change as the airline moves into the next phase of its transformation under Tata Group ownership.

Gebremariam will succeed Campbell Wilson, who led Air India through its initial turnaround following Tata Group's acquisition of the carrier. The airline said the appointment follows a comprehensive global search overseen by a dedicated committee of the Board of Directors.

New Air India CEO. Photo: Air India

According to Air India, the selection process focused on identifying a leader with extensive experience in airline restructuring, operational excellence, safety, customer service, and profitable growth. The board unanimously selected Gebremariam, citing his track record of transforming Ethiopian Airlines into one of the world's leading carriers.

During more than a decade as CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, Gebremariam oversaw a dramatic expansion that saw the airline's revenue increase more than fourfold while its fleet nearly tripled in size. Under his leadership, Ethiopian Airlines became Africa's largest and most profitable airline group, expanding its international network and investing heavily in maintenance, training, and aviation infrastructure.

Air India said those capabilities align with its own ambitions as it transitions from stabilization to long-term growth. The airline plans to accelerate international expansion, strengthen hub operations, improve operational reliability, and continue modernizing its fleet and customer experience.

N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, said Gebremariam's experience in building "one of the world's most efficient and profitable airline groups" makes him the right leader to guide Air India through its next stage of development.

Gebremariam described the appointment as "a profound honour," adding that Air India has a unique opportunity to become a world-class airline reflecting India's growing global influence.

"I look forward to working closely with the Board, employees and industry partners to deliver exceptional operational reliability, warm Indian hospitality, and sustained long-term growth," he said.

The airline also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting India's ambition of becoming a major global aviation hub through stronger international connectivity, high safety standards, and continued investment in people and infrastructure.

Air India thanked outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson for leading the carrier's first phase of transformation, including the integration of businesses, fleet modernization, and the establishment of new corporate governance standards.

The airline said details regarding Gebremariam's onboarding and transition timeline will be announced at a later date.