Tata Group scouts international talent for aviation leadership overhaul soon
Tata Sons has initiated a high-level search for a new Air India CEO to lead its aviation business into a more profitable and efficient era. Reports suggest that Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran is personally driving this transition, having already engaged in discussions with top executives from prominent airlines in the United States and the United Kingdom.
While the current CEO, Campbell Wilson, is officially contracted until June 2027, the leadership change could happen much sooner. Sources indicate that the group’s top brass is looking for sharper execution and deeper operational expertise to navigate the airline through its current challenges. This move comes at a time when Tata Sons is also evaluating the leadership at Air India Express, where CEO Aloke Singh’s term is also nearing its end.
The decision to scout for fresh talent follows a period of mixed results for the national carrier. Although the merger of Vistara into Air India was completed, the airline has struggled with persistent operational hurdles. Global supply chain disruptions have delayed the delivery of new aircraft, leaving the fleet reliant on older planes that frequently face technical issues. Furthermore, the airline has faced intense scrutiny following the tragic Ahmedabad crash last year.
Financial pressures are also mounting. In the 2025 fiscal year, Air India and Air India Express reported a combined loss of over ₹10,000 crore. These figures have made the aviation wing the largest loss-making segment within the Tata Group portfolio. Additionally, the airline has dealt with regulatory challenges, including show-cause notices from the DGCA regarding compliance and licensing issues.
For travelers in regions like Odisha, these changes are significant. As Biju Patnaik International Airport continues to expand its footprint, the stability and efficiency of a major carrier like Air India impact local connectivity and service quality. Tata Sons now aims to find a leader who can balance aggressive growth with a customer-centric approach to ensure Air India becomes a truly world-class competitor.
