Air India has appointed former Ethiopian Airlines Group chief Tewolde Gebremariam as its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, succeeding Campbell Wilson as the Tata Group-owned carrier prepares for the next phase of its transformation.
The appointment was approved by the airline's board following a selection process that evaluated both internal and external candidates. According to the airline, a board committee oversaw the search before finalising Gebremariam for the role.
Gebremariam brings decades of aviation leadership experience, having led Ethiopian Airlines Group for more than ten years. During his tenure, he oversaw a significant expansion of the airline's fleet and international network while strengthening its aviation training and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities.
Air India said his expertise in airline operations, hub development and long-haul network expansion aligns with the carrier's plans to accelerate its restructuring and growth strategy.
Commenting on the appointment, N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons and Air India, said the airline has completed its initial phase of stabilisation, integration and fleet commitments under Campbell Wilson's leadership and is now entering a critical execution and expansion phase. He said Gebremariam's experience in building Ethiopian Airlines into one of the world's most efficient and profitable airline groups makes him well-positioned to lead Air India through its next stage of growth.
Accepting the role, Gebremariam described the opportunity as a "profound honour," adding that Air India has a rich legacy and significant potential to emerge as a world-class global airline. He said he looks forward to working with the board, employees and industry stakeholders to enhance operational reliability, strengthen customer experience and drive sustainable long-term growth.
Under Gebremariam's leadership, Air India plans to focus on improving on-time performance, modernising aircraft cabins, expanding international connectivity and strengthening its hub operations. The airline also said employee training and career development across flight operations, engineering, ground services and corporate functions will remain a key part of its ongoing transformation programme.
Wilson, who joined Air India in 2022 following the Tata Group's acquisition of the airline, led several landmark initiatives during his tenure, including the merger with Vistara, the integration of systems and operations, fleet modernisation plans and organisational restructuring.
Air India has not yet announced Gebremariam's joining date or a detailed transition timeline, stating that further details will be shared in due course.
