Air India Appoints Tewolde Gebremariam as CEO to Lead Next Phase of Growth

The Tata Group-owned airline is entering its next phase of growth and will focus on expanding its business while improving profitability.

"The Board of Directors of Air India today announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam as the airline's Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, succeeding Campbell Wilson. This executive transition marks a pivotal juncture in Air India's transformation journey to become a world-class, leading global airline," the company said in a statement.

"His unique strength lies in managing complex operational landscapes, driving cultural transformation, building competitive global hubs, and developing world-class MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) and aviation training infrastructure," it added.

Air India's Board of Directors announced Tewolde Gebremariam's appointment on Wednesday after conducting a global search. A special board committee reviewed both internal and external candidates before making the final decision.

The board selected Gebremariam because of his strong experience in turning around airlines, managing operations, improving safety, enhancing customer service, and growing businesses.

Gebremariam is best known for serving as the CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group for more than 10 years. During his leadership, the airline expanded rapidly and became one of Africa's largest and most profitable airline groups.

Under his leadership, Ethiopian Airlines increased its revenue by more than four times and nearly tripled its aircraft fleet.

He also helped expand international flight routes, develop major airline hubs, improve aircraft maintenance and repair services, and strengthen aviation training facilities.

Air India believes his experience in long-haul operations, safety, engineering, and operational reliability will help the airline as it continues its transformation. The appointment comes at a time when the airline is facing financial challenges, regulatory scrutiny after last year's fatal crash, and disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions.

Air India said Gebremariam's appointment is an important step in its goal of becoming a leading global airline. He will also focus on strengthening the company's workforce, with people and talent playing a key role in its future success.

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