Air India CEO Tewolde Gebremariam Seeks Staff Support to Cut Disruptions
Air India’s incoming CEO and Managing Director Tewolde Gebremariam has called on employees to support his efforts to strengthen the airline, with safety, customer service and minimising operational disruptions identified as key priorities.
In his first address to Air India employees on Monday, Gebremariam said the airline had a strong heritage, a powerful brand and significant potential for growth.
“If we do the right things at the right time, the sky is the limit,” he said.
Gebremariam was appointed Air India’s next CEO and MD on August 5 following a comprehensive selection process overseen by a dedicated board committee. He is expected to take charge after securing the necessary approvals.
‘We will Make Air India Great Again’
Addressing employees, Gebremariam said he was arriving from the US and used the phrase “Make Air India Great Again” (MAGA) to describe his ambition for the airline.
He also recalled his association with Mumbai during the 1990s, when he said Air India was among the leading names in the aviation industry.
Gebremariam said his new role would give him an opportunity to help restore the airline’s position as a strong global brand.
The incoming CEO brings nearly four decades of experience with Ethiopian Airlines Group. He served as the airline group’s CEO for more than 11 years before moving on from the position.
Safety and disruption management top priorities
Gebremariam told employees that building a strong safety-first culture would be the airline’s foremost priority.
He also stressed the importance of reducing operational disruptions. Where disruptions cannot be avoided, he said the airline must respond professionally and ensure that affected passengers are properly looked after.
“I need your support and cooperation. We cannot bring about meaningful change without the commitment of our people,” he told employees.
His comments come as Air India continues efforts to strengthen operations and improve the overall passenger experience amid heightened scrutiny of airline reliability and service standards.
Campbell Wilson says Air India’s best days lie ahead
Air India Chairman N Chandrasekaran and outgoing CEO and MD Campbell Wilson also addressed employees during the interaction.
Wilson said he believed Air India’s strongest phase was still to come. He added that while he would be stepping away from the leadership role, he would continue to support the airline from the sidelines.
Gebremariam will formally assume the CEO and MD position once the required approvals are completed.
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