Air India appoints Tewolde Gebremariam as new CEO & Managing Director

The Board of Directors of Air India announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam as the airline's Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director on 5 August 2026, succeeding Campbell Wilson, who will step down on 30 September 2026 after leading Air India's turnaround since 2022.

Who Is Tewolde Gebremariam?

1. Gebremariam is widely regarded as one of the most successful aviation chief executives globally. 
2. During his decade-plus tenure as CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group.
3. He led a multi-billion-dollar expansion that transformed a regional carrier into Africa's largest, most profitable airline group, growing revenue more than fourfold and nearly tripling fleet size. 
4. His expertise spans complex operational management, cultural transformation, global hub-building, and developing world-class MRO and aviation training infrastructure.

Why was Tewolde Gebremariam chosen as new CEO & MD?

The Board conducted an extensive global search, evaluating internal and external candidates, before unanimously selecting Gebremariam for his proven record in airline turnarounds, operational excellence, and profitable expansion. As Air India moves from its foundational turnaround phase into a high-growth execution phase, his experience in international long-haul network expansion, hub operations, safety standards, and workforce development was seen as key to the airline's next stage.

About Air India Group

Air India Group, comprising Air India and Air India Express, employs over 30,000 people, operates 300+ aircraft, and serves 60 domestic and 51 international destinations. It returned to Tata Sons in 2022 and is undergoing its five-year Vihaan.AI transformation, including orders for 600 new aircraft and South Asia's largest aviation training academy in Gurugram.

Key Highlights of Air India’s Newly Appointed MD and Chief Executive Officer

1. New CEO & MD - Tewolde Gebremariam
2. Date of Announcement - 5 August 2026
3. Succeeds - Campbell Wilson (steps down 30 September 2026)
4. Previous Role - Group CEO, Ethiopian Airlines (2011–2022)
5. Chairman, Tata Sons & Air India -  N. Chandrasekaran
6. Air India Founded - 1932, by J.R.D Tata