Why Air India Chose Tewolde Gebremariam as Its New CEO

Air India has entered a new phase of its transformation by appointing Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director.

The appointment comes at a crucial time as the airline focuses on improving operations, expanding its international network, and strengthening its position as a global carrier.

The decision follows a global search conducted by Air India’s Board after the resignation of former CEO Campbell Wilson, who led the airline through the initial years following the Tata Group takeover.

During Wilson’s tenure, Air India launched one of the world’s largest aircraft orders, began integrating multiple airline businesses, and laid the foundation for long-term growth.

Now, the airline is looking for a leader with deep operational experience to take the next step.

Tewolde Gebremariam is widely respected for transforming Ethiopian Airlines into Africa’s largest and most profitable airline group. During his leadership from 2011 to 2022, the airline’s revenue grew from around $1 billion to nearly $4.5 billion, while its fleet expanded from about 33 aircraft to nearly 130 aircraft.

Passenger traffic increased significantly, and Ethiopian Airlines successfully navigated major global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, by strengthening its cargo operations and maintaining profitability without relying on government bailouts.

His impressive record is one of the biggest reasons Air India selected him for the role.

Beyond financial growth, Gebremariam has built a strong reputation for operational excellence, aviation safety, customer service, and efficient airline management.

He also has extensive experience in developing global aviation hubs, expanding long-haul international routes, strengthening Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities, and investing in aviation training infrastructure.

These areas closely match Air India’s long-term vision as it works to become a leading international airline.

The appointment also comes after a challenging period for the carrier. Air India has been dealing with operational issues, rising competition, financial pressures, and the impact of the tragic Ahmedabad–London Flight AI171 accident in Gujarat last year.

While the airline continues to recover and improve its operations, the new leadership is expected to accelerate its transformation.

Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran said the airline is now entering an “execution and expansion” phase. According to the Board, Gebremariam’s proven leadership, operational expertise, commitment to safety, and experience in building a world-class airline make him the ideal person to lead Air India into its next chapter.

With hundreds of new aircraft on order, an expanding international network, and major investments in customer experience and operational efficiency, Air India is now focused on becoming one of the world’s leading full-service airlines.

Under Tewolde Gebremariam’s leadership, the airline aims to improve reliability, profitability, and service quality while continuing its ambitious global expansion.