IndiGo appoints Willie Walsh as CEO; set to join by August 3

IndiGo has appointed former British Airways chief Willie Walsh as its new chief executive officer, ushering in a leadership change nearly a month after Pieter Elbers stepped down from the role.

Walsh, who currently serves as director general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), will conclude his tenure at the aviation body on July 31. He is expected to join IndiGo by August 3, according to the company.

Elbers exited the airline on March 10, 2026, a few months after IndiGo experienced network-wide flight disruptions.

IndiGo Chairman Vikram Singh welcomed Walsh’s appointment, describing him as a globally respected aviation leader with extensive experience in managing large-scale airline operations. He added that Walsh’s ability to navigate complex market dynamics makes him well-suited to lead IndiGo through its next phase of growth in a competitive global environment.

Walsh, in his statement, noted that the aviation sector is undergoing rapid transformation and said IndiGo is well positioned to capitalise on these shifts. He expressed enthusiasm about working with teams across the organisation to drive excellence, innovation, and sustainable value creation.