Air India CEO Campbell Wilson to step down as successor search begins
NEW DELHI — Air India on Tuesday confirmed that Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Campbell Wilson will step down, with the airline initiating a process to identify his successor in the coming months.
In a statement, the carrier said Wilson had informed Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran of his intention to resign in 2026 as early as 2024 and has since been working to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
“He will remain in the role until his successor is announced and in place,” the airline said.
Wilson reflected on his tenure, highlighting the transformation of the airline since its privatization nearly four years ago. He pointed to the acquisition and integration of four airlines, a shift from public to private sector operations, and a broad overhaul of leadership, workforce, and corporate culture.
“It has seen the complete modernisation of systems, the launch of new physical products, and deployment of elevated service standards on ground and in the air, as well as 100 additional aircraft added to the fleet,” Wilson said.
He added that the interior refit of legacy narrowbody aircraft is nearly complete, while deliveries of widebody aircraft featuring new custom-designed interiors are underway.
Chandrasekaran thanked Wilson for his leadership and contributions during a period marked by significant operational and external challenges.
“On behalf of the Board, I wish to record my deep appreciation for Campbell’s leadership and contribution over the past four years,” he said.
He noted that the airline navigated multiple headwinds, including post-pandemic supply chain disruptions that affected aircraft deliveries and retrofit programs, as well as broader geopolitical challenges.
“Campbell and his team have demonstrated tenacity and resolve and have aligned an organisation drawn from many backgrounds behind the shared goal of building the new Air India that is now emerging,” Chandrasekaran said.
The airline did not provide a timeline for naming a successor but said the search process is underway. (Source: IANS)
