Air India Names Tewolde Gebremariam as New CEO

Air India has appointed Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. He succeeds Campbell Wilson, who resigned in April this year.

The details of Gebremariam's remuneration package have not been publicly disclosed by the Tata Group or Air India.

For context, the remuneration package of the outgoing CEO, Campbell Wilson, was approved in April 2025, and allowed him to earn up to Rs 27.75 crore annually. This package included a fixed salary of Rs 11.1 crore, performance-linked bonuses of Rs 8.32 crore, and long-term stock incentives worth Rs 8.32 crore.

Nearly 60 percent of Wilson's maximum package was linked to Air India's operational and financial performance. This performance-based structure meant that a large part of his earnings depended on whether the airline met key business goals.

Gebremariam's expected pay may be comparable to Wilson's, but it is not confirmed. Air India could offer a different mix of fixed salary, performance bonuses, and long-term incentives.

In comparison to other Indian airline executives, Wilson's approved remuneration placed him among the highest-paid. For example, former IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers received about Rs 21.61 crore annually, while Akasa Air CEO Vinay Dube received around Rs 8.75 crore.

Gebremariam previously led Ethiopian Airlines for over a decade, expanding its fleet and international network. Air India expects his experience to support its next phase of growth and improve operations.

Until the airline officially reveals his remuneration, the value of his new salary package will remain a matter of interest among employees, passengers, and industry observers.

The appointment of Gebremariam as the new CEO of Air India is significant for the airline's future growth and profitability. With his experience and leadership, Air India is expected to strengthen its position in the Indian aviation market.

In conclusion, the appointment of Tewolde Gebremariam as the new CEO of Air India marks a new chapter for the airline. While his remuneration package is not yet disclosed, his experience and leadership are expected to support the airline's growth and improve its operations.