Mumbai

Air India CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson on Tuesday announced his decision to step down, stating that it is the right time to hand over leadership for the airline’s next phase of growth.

Wilson, who has led Air India since mid-2022 following its acquisition by the Tata Group, will remain in his role temporarily to ensure a smooth transition.

In a message to staff, he expressed pride in the airline’s transformation over the past four years despite multiple challenges, including supply chain disruptions, aircraft delivery delays, geopolitical conflicts, airspace restrictions, rising fuel costs, and operational setbacks.

“With a brief window before bulk deliveries from our nearly 600-aircraft order begin in 2027, this is the right moment to pass on the reins,” Wilson said.

Under his leadership, Air India underwent significant restructuring, including the merger of four airlines, a shift from public-sector to private-sector operations, and a complete overhaul of leadership, workforce, and organisational culture.

The airline also modernised its systems, introduced upgraded onboard and ground services, and expanded its fleet with around 100 additional aircraft. Refurbishment of narrow-body aircraft is nearly complete, while new wide-body planes with updated interiors are being inducted.

Wilson highlighted the development of key infrastructure, including South Asia’s largest aviation training academy, flight simulators, a flying school, and a new maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility.

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Air India, once a loss-making carrier, has been undergoing an ambitious turnaround since its privatisation in January 2022.