Tewolde Gebremariam, a highly regarded aviation veteran, has officially taken the reins as the new Managing Director and CEO of Air India. This appointment marks a significant move for the Tata Group-owned airline as it embarks on a new phase of expansion and profitability.
A Surprising Career Shift
Before his confirmation at Air India, Gebremariam was reportedly on the verge of leading another major airline revival: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). Following PIA's management transition to a consortium led by Arif Habib Group, Gebremariam emerged as the frontrunner for the CEO position. His mandate at PIA would have included modernizing the fleet, enhancing operational efficiency, and expanding the carrier's international network.
However, the announcement of his leadership at PIA was delayed, as the airline awaited mandatory security clearances. A senior PIA official had confirmed to Arab News that the airline would not announce his name until all security checks were completed. This delay ultimately opened the door for Air India to secure the services of the renowned turnaround specialist.
Air India Secures an Aviation Veteran
While PIA's leadership transition was in limbo, Air India finalized Gebremariam's appointment after a global search for an executive with extensive experience in airline transformation and large-scale operations. N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India, lauded Gebremariam's track record, stating his experience in building one of the world's most efficient and profitable airline groups makes him uniquely suited to lead Air India.
Chandrasekaran highlighted Gebremariam's expertise in improving airline operations, strengthening safety standards, and building aviation hubs as invaluable assets for Air India's expansion under Tata Group ownership. Gebremariam expressed that leading Air India is a "profound honour" and emphasized his commitment to delivering "exceptional operational reliability, warm Indian hospitality, and sustained long-term growth."
Gebremariam's Ethiopian Airlines Legacy
Tewolde Gebremariam led Ethiopian Airlines from 2011 to 2022, a period during which the carrier achieved remarkable growth. Under his leadership, Ethiopian Airlines significantly expanded its fleet, widened its international presence, and solidified Addis Ababa's position as a major aviation hub. The airline emerged as one of Africa’s strongest aviation groups, excelling across passenger operations, cargo, and maintenance services.
He retired from Ethiopian Airlines in 2022 after nearly four decades with the organization, citing health reasons. His move to Air India signifies a shift from the airline's earlier stabilization efforts towards a new phase focused on profitability, international growth, enhanced passenger experience, and stronger global connectivity.