The Tata Group Initiates Search for New CEO to Lead Air India
In the wake of the recent Ahmedabad plane crash and ongoing financial challenges, the Tata Group has commenced the process of finding a new Chief Executive Officer to spearhead Air India. The airline, which was privatized by the government, has been struggling to achieve a much-needed financial turnaround.
N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of the Tata Group, has reportedly engaged in preliminary discussions with potential CEO candidates who possess extensive experience in managing large airlines. This strategic move aims to bring fresh leadership to Air India amidst its turbulent phase.
Current CEO Campbell Wilson, whose contract is set to expire in mid-2027, is rumored to be uninterested in continuing with the airline. Consequently, the upcoming appointment is anticipated to mark an amicable separation between Wilson and Air India, as per insider sources.
The primary catalyst behind the decision to seek a new CEO stems from Air India’s projected failure to break even by the March 31 deadline. The tragic Boeing 787 Dreamliner crash in Ahmedabad in June 2025 dealt a severe blow to the airline’s revival efforts.
Despite the Tata Group’s substantial investments in fleet modernization and route expansion, Air India’s turnaround has been impeded by delays in aircraft deliveries and refurbishments planned for older planes in the fleet.
When approached for comments on the CEO appointment, Air India did not provide a response to queries from IANS as of the time of reporting.
