Air India appoints former Ethiopian Airlines chief Tewolde Gebremariam as CEO


Tewolde Gebremariam succeeds Campbell Wilson as Air India navigates mounting losses, regulatory scrutiny and operational disruptions.

Air India has appointed former Ethiopian Airlines chief Tewolde Gebremariam as its new chief executive officer as the Tata Group-owned carrier continues to grapple with financial losses, regulatory scrutiny and operational challenges.

Gebremariam succeeds Campbell Wilson, the former Singapore Airlines executive who was appointed in 2022 to lead Air India’s turnaround following the airline’s return to Tata Group ownership.

Wilson had informed Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran in 2024 about his plans to step down in 2026, according to the airline.

Gebremariam brings extensive aviation industry experience to the role, having previously led Ethiopian Airlines Group. His appointment comes at a crucial stage in Air India’s transformation as the carrier works to modernise its fleet, improve services and strengthen its position in the domestic and international aviation markets.

The airline has been facing heightened regulatory scrutiny following the 2025 crash that killed 260 people. The accident added to the challenges facing Air India as it seeks to overhaul its operations and restore its reputation.

Air India is also dealing with significant financial and operational pressures. Disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East have pushed up operating costs, while Pakistan’s airspace restrictions have further complicated international flight operations and increased expenses on several routes.

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The combination of higher costs, operational disruptions and regulatory pressures has weighed on the airline’s turnaround efforts.

Gebremariam will now be tasked with steering Air India through the next phase of its transformation while addressing losses, operational reliability and regulatory concerns.

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