Air India names aviation veteran as new CEO
Air India has appointed Tewolde Gebremariam as its new chief executive and managing director, bringing in an aviation veteran with more than three decades of experience at Ethiopian Airlines.
The decision follows a global search by a board committee, which chose Gebremariam unanimously for the position. He will take over from Campbell Wilson, who is stepping down on September 30 after leading the airline’s turnaround since the Tata Group acquired it in 2022.
From Regional Director to Airline CEO
Gebremariam spent more than three decades at Ethiopian Airlines, advancing from regional director for India, Saudi Arabia, and North America to chief operating officer and eventually group CEO. His leadership from January 2011 to March 2022 drove significant growth.
During his tenure, revenue increased fourfold, while the fleet expanded to 134 aircraft. The airline also doubled its international network to 128 destinations and quadrupled annual passenger traffic. Investments totaling nearly $1 billion included cargo facilities, maintenance hangars, and an aviation university.
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Before joining Air India, he provided advisory services to Delta Air Lines and the International Finance Corporation on aviation and logistics projects.
His time at Ethiopian Airlines included managing multiple crises. He guided the airline through the Covid-19 pandemic, the 2019 Boeing 737 MAX crash, and earlier disruptions like SARS and Ebola. Despite these challenges, the airline remained profitable without government bailouts or layoffs, as noted in reports at the time.
Air India’s Next Phase: Global Expansion
Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran stated that the airline has completed its initial stabilization and integration phase under Wilson’s leadership. The focus now shifts to execution and growth.
“Gebremariam’s experience in building one of the world’s most efficient airline groups makes him the right choice,” Chandrasekaran said. “His operational expertise and vision for hub development will help position Air India as a leading global carrier.”
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For Gebremariam, the role offers an opportunity to strengthen Air India’s legacy while capitalizing on India’s expanding aviation sector. “Building a world-class airline that reflects India’s economic potential is an exciting challenge,” he said. “I’m eager to collaborate with the board, employees, and partners to ensure operational excellence and long-term success.”
His approach to hub development could influence Air India’s network strategy, especially as it competes with Middle Eastern carriers for international traffic.
Gebremariam assumes leadership as Air India continues to resolve issues from its previous government ownership, such as outdated infrastructure and service inconsistencies. His background in crisis management may help as the airline scales while maintaining safety standards.
