Former Ethiopian Airlines Chief Tewolde Gebremariam Takes the Helm at Air India

Air India has appointed former Ethiopian Airlines chief Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director (MD), marking a significant leadership transition as the Tata Group-owned carrier enters its next phase of execution and global expansion.

Gebremariam succeeds Campbell Wilson, who had been leading Air India since 2022 and oversaw a period focused on stabilisation, integration and major fleet commitments.

Air India Enters New Phase of Growth

The leadership change comes as Air India shifts its focus towards executing its transformation strategy, expanding its network and strengthening its position in the global aviation market.

N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, said the airline has completed the initial phase of its transformation under Wilson’s leadership and is now entering a critical period of execution and expansion.

“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,” Chandrasekaran said.

Gebremariam Brings Global Aviation Leadership Experience

Gebremariam brings extensive international aviation leadership experience to Air India, having previously led Ethiopian Airlines.

During his aviation career, he developed significant experience across airline operations, international expansion and hub-led growth strategies.

His appointment brings a seasoned global aviation executive to Air India as the carrier works towards strengthening operational reliability and establishing itself as a leading international airline.

Focus on Operational Reliability and Global Expansion

As incoming CEO and Managing Director, Gebremariam will be tasked with leading Air India through its next stage of transformation.

His priorities are expected to include strengthening operational performance, supporting network and hub development, improving the passenger experience and delivering sustainable long-term growth.

“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,” Gebremariam said.

Building Air India as a Premier Global Carrier

The appointment comes as Air India continues its broader transformation under the Tata Group, with the airline looking to strengthen its competitiveness in both domestic and international aviation.

Gebremariam’s leadership will now be central to translating Air India’s transformation plans and fleet commitments into operational execution while strengthening its global network and customer proposition.

His appointment marks a new leadership chapter for the airline as it seeks to build on the groundwork established over the past few years and accelerate its ambitions of becoming a premier global carrier.