The Tata Group is in the process of finding a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead Air India during a challenging period marked by the recent Ahmedabad plane crash and financial struggles. N. Chandrasekaran, the Chairman of Tata Group, has initiated talks with potential CEO candidates experienced in managing large airlines. The current CEO, Campbell Wilson, is reportedly not keen on continuing with the airline, paving the way for an amicable departure.
Air India’s failure to meet the March 31 breakeven target is a key driver behind the decision to seek new leadership. The setback caused by the Boeing 787 Dreamliner crash in Ahmedabad in June 2025 has impeded the airline’s revival efforts. Despite significant investments by the Tata Group in fleet modernization and route expansion, delays in aircraft deliveries and refurbishments, along with safety concerns post the crash, have hampered the airline’s turnaround.
Operational challenges, such as Pakistan’s airspace closure to Indian carriers leading to longer flight paths and increased operational costs, have further impacted Air India’s financial performance. Campbell Wilson, a New Zealand-born executive who assumed the CEO role in July 2022 post the Tata Group’s acquisition of Air India, is expected to step down. Additionally, leadership changes are anticipated at Air India Express, Tata Group’s low-cost subsidiary.
