Air India has appointed Tewolde Gebremariam as its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, succeeding Campbell Wilson. The appointment comes as the airline moves from its foundational turnaround phase into a period focused on growth, operational excellence and profitability.
Gebremariam is recognised for his decade-plus leadership of Ethiopian Airlines Group, where he led a multi-billion-dollar expansion that grew the airline’s revenue more than fourfold and fleet nearly threefold. His experience includes managing complex operations, developing global hubs, strengthening MRO and aviation training infrastructure, and building a strong culture of safety and service.
At Air India, he will focus on strengthening operational reliability, expanding international connectivity, enhancing customer experience and supporting the airline’s transformation into a leading global carrier. The airline also highlighted continued investments in employee training, career development and a high-performance work culture.
N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons and Air India, said: “On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome Tewolde to Air India. 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.”
Tewolde Gebremariam, Incoming CEO & Managing Director, said: “It is a profound honour to be entrusted with leading Air India at such a historic moment in its journey. Air India carries an incredible legacy, and the opportunity to build a world-class global airline that reflects India’s extraordinary economic potential is uniquely exciting. I look forward to working closely with Chairman Chandrasekaran, the Board, our employees, and all government and industry partners to deliver exceptional operational reliability, warm Indian hospitality, and sustained long-term growth.”
