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Air India Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Campbell Wilson has announced his resignation, stating that now is the right moment for a change in leadership as the airline enters a new chapter. The airline revealed that Wilson had informed Chairman N Chandrasekaran about his intention to resign in 2026 as early as 2024, and has been getting the organization ready for a smooth handover. He will stay in his position until a new leader is selected. While explaining his choice, Wilson mentioned that the last four years have been dedicated to rebuilding Air India following its return to the Tata Group. He shared that in the four years since Air India was privatized, they have successfully acquired and merged four airlines.
He further noted that the airline has shifted from government procedures to private sector methods, while also refreshing its leadership, workforce, and overall culture. Wilson indicated that Air India has upgraded its systems, launched new products, and raised service quality for both ground and air operations. The airline has added about 100 planes to its fleet, and the process of updating older narrow-body aircraft is almost finished. The delivery of new wide-body aircraft with renovated interiors has also started. Wilson highlighted investments in infrastructure, such as the opening of the largest training academy in South Asia, new simulation facilities, a training school for pilots, and a maintenance center. He mentioned that the foundation for Air India's transformation has largely been set, and the upcoming phase will need a new leader.
“With these basic elements now in place, the time has come for me to pass on the leadership for the next chapter of Air India’s growth,” he stated. He added that he would still support the airline after his departure, expressing it as a privilege to be part of its journey. Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran expressed gratitude for Wilson’s leadership during a time of both internal shifts and external difficulties. “On behalf of the Board, I want to express my sincere thanks for Campbell’s leadership and contributions over the past four years,” he said. He pointed out that the airline faced supply chain issues after Covid, which impacted aircraft deliveries and modification plans. Chandrasekaran also addressed the wider geopolitical challenges that influenced the aviation industry during this time. “Campbell and his team have shown determination and strength,” he said, emphasizing their ability to unite teams from various backgrounds to create a new Air India.
Wilson’s resignation comes as Air India is gearing up for the next phase of its growth, including fulfilling a major aircraft order set for delivery in 2027. The leadership change will be closely observed as the airline continues its recovery amidst rising expenses, global uncertainties, and growing competition.
