In a significant development for Indian aviation, Tata Group-owned Air India is reportedly preparing to replace its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Campbell Wilson, upon the conclusion of his term in 2027. According to news agency Reuters and the Economic Times, the airline has already begun the search for his successor.
Regulatory Scrutiny and Performance Reviews Prompt Change
The move comes amid increased scrutiny from aviation regulators following a fatal crash in June last year that claimed 260 lives. This scrutiny has highlighted several operational lapses within the airline, including issues related to forgery, delays in replacing critical engine parts, aircraft flying without proper emergency equipment checks, and shortcomings in managing crew fatigue.
Furthermore, the Economic Times report indicates that Tata Group and Air India Chairman, N Chandrasekaran, is dissatisfied with Wilson's management of the recent crisis and the overall pace of improvement at the national carrier. Chandrasekaran has reportedly conducted periodic performance reviews with Wilson over the past few months before arriving at this decision.
Search for New Leadership Extends to Air India Express
The leadership reshuffle is not limited to the full-service airline. Reports suggest that the group's low-cost carrier, Air India Express, is also expected to see a change at the top. Its current CEO, Aloke Singh, is likely to be replaced after his term concludes next year, aligning with the timeline for Air India's transition.
It is reported that Chandrasekaran has already initiated conversations with at least two leading executives based in the United States and the United Kingdom as potential candidates to take over from Wilson. The formal search for a replacement is actively underway.
Campbell Wilson's Tenure and Background
Campbell Wilson, a veteran with over 26 years in the aviation industry, took the helm at Air India in July 2022. Prior to this, he was the CEO of Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA). His career began with SIA as a management trainee in New Zealand in 1996, and he held various international roles before founding and leading Scoot.
During his tenure at Air India, Wilson oversaw the complex integration of the erstwhile Vistara Airlines into the Air India fold and spearheaded a significant expansion of the airline's fleet. His current term is set to end in June 2027.
When approached for comments, Air India, Air India Express, Campbell Wilson, Singapore Airlines, and the Tata Group did not respond to media queries. Livemint has also reached out to the airlines for an official statement, and updates will follow upon receiving a response.
