Tewolde Gebremariam Outlines Plan to Revive Air India

Incoming Air India CEO and Managing Director Tewolde Gebremariam has outlined a turnaround strategy focused on safety, operational reliability, customer confidence and tighter financial management as the airline enters a crucial phase of its transformation. Speaking to Air India employees for the first time, Gebremariam urged staff to support efforts to rebuild the airline and declared his ambition to “Make Air India Great Again”.

The former Ethiopian Airlines chief said the carrier had a strong legacy and significant potential, but would need to consistently improve its basic operations to regain its position among leading airlines. Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran said rebuilding passenger trust should be the airline’s top priority. He stressed that safety standards must be exceptionally high and identified safety, customer trust, operational execution and cost discipline as key areas for the company’s next phase.

The airline has faced significant challenges over the past 18 months, including operational disruptions, geopolitical tensions, airspace restrictions and fluctuations in fuel prices. The fatal AI171 crash in June 2025, which killed 260 people, also brought intense scrutiny of Air India’s safety practices and regulatory compliance.

The financial situation remains another major challenge. Air India Group recorded losses of more than $2 billion in the financial year ended March 2026, highlighting the scale of the turnaround required. The Tata Group has continued to invest heavily in fleet renewal, aircraft upgrades, technology and the integration of its aviation businesses.

Gebremariam said safety must remain at the centre of Air India’s culture and employees should feel empowered to report concerns. He also stressed that operational excellence begins with consistently delivering basic services, including punctual flights, reliable baggage handling and clean aircraft.

He said disruptions cannot always be avoided, but the airline must respond to them professionally and ensure passengers receive proper assistance when problems occur. Gebremariam brings nearly four decades of aviation experience to Air India, including more than 11 years as head of Ethiopian Airlines. During his tenure, the carrier expanded significantly in terms of fleet, network and business operations. Outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson, who led Air India’s transformation following its return to the Tata Group, has also expressed confidence in the airline’s future.