Ethiopian Airlines veteran takes operational control of troubled Air India

Tewolde Gebremariam, the seasoned aviation executive from Ethiopian Airlines, has taken charge of Air India's day-to-day operations as the carrier grapples with a mounting list of operational and administrative challenges. His assumption of control marks a significant step in the national airline's ongoing restructuring efforts, though the transition occurs amid continued bureaucratic hurdles.

The Ethiopian aviation veteran joined Air India in early 2024 but will not yet assume the formal titles of chief executive officer and accountable manager, positions contingent upon completion of security clearance procedures. This interim arrangement reflects the complex regulatory framework governing appointments at India's flag carrier, even as the airline faces pressing operational concerns.

Air India has confronted multiple headwinds in recent months, ranging from fleet management issues to customer service complaints and regulatory scrutiny. The appointment of an internationally experienced aviation executive signals the airline's commitment to addressing these systemic challenges, though observers note that Gebremariam's effectiveness will largely depend on his ability to navigate India's regulatory environment and implement necessary reforms.

The delay in formalizing Gebremariam's top position underscores ongoing challenges within Air India's governance structure. Nevertheless, his takeover of operational control represents a concrete step toward stabilizing the carrier as it seeks to regain lost market confidence and operational efficiency in India's increasingly competitive aviation sector.