Tewolde Gebremariam appointed Air India CEO; ex-Ethiopian Airlines chief takes over from Campbell Wilson

Air India has appointed Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer, the airline announced on Thursday. Gebremariam, who previously led Ethiopian Airlines, will succeed Campbell Wilson, who steered the carrier during the initial phase of its transition to Tata Group ownership.

The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Air India, which is now entering what the airline describes as a “critical execution and expansion era.” Gebremariam was most recently selected to lead Pakistan International Airlines, but will now take the helm at Air India.

In a press statement, Air India highlighted Gebremariam’s experience: “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.”

N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India and Tata Sons, said: “Having completed the initial phase of stabilization, integration, and fleet commitments under Campbell’s guidance, Air India is now entering a critical execution and expansion era. Tewolde’s track record in building one of the world’s most efficient and profitable airline groups makes him uniquely suited to lead Air India. His operational expertise, commitment to safety, and vision for hub development will be instrumental as we establish Air India as a premier global carrier and a source of national pride.”

Gebremariam’s tenure at Ethiopian Airlines, where he served as CEO from 2011 to 2022, was marked by significant growth. Under his leadership, the airline expanded its network across Africa and beyond, becoming one of the continent’s most successful carriers. He also oversaw major investments in infrastructure, including the construction of a new terminal and the development of a large aviation training academy.

His appointment to Air India signals the airline’s intent to strengthen its global footprint and operational efficiency. Air India, which was handed back to the Tata Group in January 2022, has been undergoing a comprehensive transformation. Campbell Wilson, who took charge shortly after the handover, focused on stabilising operations, integrating systems, and placing historic fleet orders.

As part of its expansion plans, Air India has placed orders for hundreds of new aircraft from both Airbus and Boeing, aiming to modernise its fleet and compete with international carriers. The airline is also investing in upgrades to its existing aircraft, customer service, and digital infrastructure.

Gebremariam’s experience in building competitive hubs is expected to play a key role in Air India’s strategy to establish itself as a major international airline, particularly with its hub in New Delhi. His background in developing MRO capabilities may also support Air India’s plans to position itself as a regional aviation services centre.

The change in leadership comes at a time when the aviation industry is still recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and as airlines worldwide face challenges such as rising fuel costs and supply chain issues. Air India’s board will be looking to Gebremariam to navigate these complexities while delivering on the airline’s ambitious growth targets.

Gebremariam is expected to assume his new role in the coming months. Details regarding the transition timeline and any interim arrangements have not been fully disclosed. Campbell Wilson is expected to remain in an advisory capacity during the handover, according to sources familiar with the matter, though the airline has not officially confirmed this.