Air India's chief executive, Campbell Wilson, has announced his resignation ahead of schedule as the airline grapples with mounting financial losses and ongoing safety investigations. Wilson, who was originally slated to serve until 2027, will remain in his position until a successor is appointed, according to a company statement.
Wilson, a former Singapore Airlines executive, was recruited by Tata Group in 2022 to spearhead a turnaround after the conglomerate acquired the struggling national carrier from the Indian government. During his tenure, Air India embarked on a modernization drive, refurbishing aircraft and overhauling operations, but these efforts were overshadowed by persistent financial woes and operational hurdles.
In an internal message to staff, Wilson highlighted the airline's progress, stating:
"We've undergone a comprehensive transformation—modernizing systems, launching new products, and raising service and operational standards across ground and air. We've added over 100 aircraft, nearly completed the refit of legacy narrowbodies, and begun inducting widebodies with new interiors."
Despite these advancements, Air India reported a combined loss of approximately 98 billion rupees ($1 billion) for the 2024-25 fiscal year with its low-cost subsidiary. The airline's challenges were further compounded by a tragic crash in June of last year, which claimed 260 lives and prompted heightened regulatory scrutiny. Indian authorities are expected to release a final investigation report by the one-year anniversary of the incident.
Wilson indicated that he had informed Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran in 2024 of his intention to step down in 2026, emphasizing his focus on ensuring a stable transition. "The time is right for me to hand over the reins for the next phase of Air India's rise," he said.
The airline's board has established a committee to identify Wilson's replacement in the coming months. This leadership change occurs as India's aviation sector faces broader pressures, including rising operational costs, Middle East conflict-related route disruptions, aircraft delivery delays, and intensified regulatory oversight. Notably, rival carrier IndiGo recently appointed industry veteran Willie Walsh to navigate similar challenges, signaling a competitive landscape ahead for Air India's recovery efforts.