Air India has appointed former Ethiopian Airlines chief Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. His appointment comes after reports suggested that he was close to becoming the head of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). Before PIA could officially announce his name, Air India completed its global search and selected him to lead the airline’s next phase of growth under the Tata Group.
PIA Was Reportedly Preparing His Appointment
Media reports had indicated that Tewolde Gebremariam was the preferred candidate to lead Pakistan International Airlines after the airline’s management was transferred to a consortium led by the Arif Habib Group. Before confirming his position, PIA reportedly awaited necessary security clearances. The plan was for him to guide the airline’s revival through fleet upgrades, network expansion, and operational improvements.
Air India Chose Him for Its Growth Plans
Air India announced Tewolde’s appointment after a global search for an experienced aviation leader. Chairman N. Chandrasekaran said Tewolde’s success in building Ethiopian Airlines into one of the world’s most efficient and profitable airline groups made him the right choice. The airline expects his leadership to support its focus on operational excellence, safety, profitability, and international expansion.
A Proven Aviation Leader
Tewolde Gebremariam served as CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group from 2011 until his retirement in March 2022. During his leadership, the airline became Africa’s largest airline group. It expanded its fleet, added international routes, strengthened maintenance services, and developed Addis Ababa into a major aviation hub. He retired after nearly 40 years with the airline, citing health reasons.
Vision for Air India’s Future
After accepting the role, Tewolde described the appointment as a great honour. He said he aims to deliver reliable operations, warm Indian hospitality, and long-term growth for the airline. Air India stated that the leadership change marks its transition from a stabilisation phase to a stronger focus on profitability, better passenger experience, and wider global connectivity.
The airline also thanked outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson for leading important reforms, including fleet modernisation, merger integration, and improvements in governance during a key period of Air India’s transformation.