Former Ethiopian Airlines Chief Appointed Air India CEO, Was Also Considered for PIA Top Post

New Delhi: Air India has announced the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam, the former Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines Group, as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He was also reportedly considered a leading candidate for the CEO position at Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) following its privatization.

According to reports, PIA’s new management had shortlisted Gebremariam for the airline’s top executive role before his appointment by Air India.

Gebremariam led Ethiopian Airlines Group for more than a decade, during which the airline experienced significant growth and emerged as Africa’s largest airline group. Under his leadership, Ethiopian Airlines expanded its global route network, modernized its fleet, and strengthened its position in the international aviation market.

He is widely recognized for successfully steering the airline through major global challenges, including the 2019 Boeing 737 MAX crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, earning a reputation as one of the aviation industry’s most experienced and effective executives.

Air India announced that Gebremariam will officially assume office on October 1, 2026, succeeding Campbell Wilson, who will step down as CEO on September 30, 2026.

In a statement, Air India said the appointment comes as the airline continues its transformation under the Tata Group, focusing on organizational restructuring, fleet modernization, service improvements, and enhancing its global competitiveness.

Campbell Wilson, who was appointed in 2022 to lead Air India’s revival after its acquisition by the Tata Group, oversaw several major initiatives, including record aircraft orders, expanded international operations, and improvements in customer service. The airline expressed confidence that Gebremariam’s leadership will further accelerate Air India’s growth and modernization.