Air India\’s New Chief Urges Staff Backing to Cut Disruptions
\nAir India\’s incoming chief executive officer and managing director Tewolde Gebremariam addressed employees on Monday, calling for their support and cooperation to minimise disruptions as the airline transitions leadership.
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The new leader underscored Air India\’s strong heritage, enduring brand, and vast potential. He said the company can reach new heights if the right actions are taken at the right time, noting that \”the sky is the limit\”.
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Appointment and Leadership Background
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Air India announced on August 5 the appointment of Gebremariam as CEO and MD after a comprehensive search overseen by a dedicated board committee. Gebremariam comes to India with almost four decades of experience in the aviation sector, most recently leading Ethiopian Airlines Group.
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- Nearly four decades in the aviation industry
- CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group for more than 11 years
- Extensive tenure managing a large, international network
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In his first address, Gebremariam said he was speaking from the United States and declared a pledge to \”Make Air India Great Again\” as part of his broader aim to restore the airline\’s leadership position.
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He also recalled his earlier ties with Mumbai during the 1990s, when Air India was perceived as one of the world\’s top carriers. He stated that he now has the opportunity to help rebuild Air India\’s standing and reestablish it as a strong, trusted brand.
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Focus on Safety and Operational Excellence
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A central theme in his remarks was a safety-first culture. He emphasised that safety must be the number one priority as the airline moves through a period of leadership transition and resume growth in a highly competitive market.
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Beyond safety, Gebremariam signalled a broader agenda focused on consistent performance, reliable schedules, and enhanced collaboration with staff at all levels. The aim is to minimise disruptions by aligning operations with a clear strategic plan and a renewed commitment to customer experience.
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What this means for Air India
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With a leader who has guided a major flag carrier for over a decade, Air India seeks to leverage its heritage, brand equity, and potential to drive improved reliability and service standards. The transition will hinge on strong engagement with employees, disciplined execution, and a relentless focus on safety.
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As the airline charts its course under Gebremariam, industry observers will be watching how quickly the new leadership translates into tangible improvements in on-time performance, staff morale, and passenger confidence while maintaining the airline\’s expanded international footprint.
