Tata Sons, the owner of Air India, is considering a leadership change for its aviation business, with discussions reportedly taking place with senior executives from top international airlines. Group chairman N Chandrasekaran is said to be exploring potential successors to Air India CEO Campbell Wilson, amid concerns about the pace of progress under his leadership. While Wilson's term runs until 2027, a leadership change could occur earlier.
Air India Express may also see leadership changes, with CEO Aloke Singh’s term ending in 2027. Chandrasekaran has been overseeing Air India CEO Campbell Wilson's performance but is directly leading transition plans. Wilson, who joined in 2022, launched a five-year strategy, including the Vistara merger, but supply chain delays and technical issues have hindered progress.
The airline faced scrutiny after the deadly 2023 Ahmedabad crash, with officials engaging directly with Tata Group leadership. Wilson and others have received compliance notices.
Air India and Air India Express posted a ₹10,859 crore loss in FY25, partly due to longer flight routes.
Pilot detained for being drunk in Vancouver
An Air India pilot was detained at Vancouver Airport for failing a breathalyser test before Flight AI186 to Delhi, causing a delay. An alternate pilot was arranged, and the airline apologised for the disruption. The airline expressed regret over the breach of its zero-tolerance alcohol policy. The flight was cancelled, affecting over 250 passengers. This follows a similar incident in July 2024. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is reviewing the case, and the pilot’s licence may be revoked. Air India aims to restore public confidence with enhanced safety protocols.
