The search for a successor commenced in January after Wilson expressed his intention not to extend his tenure, as reported by HT. He joined Air India in September 2022 on a five-year contract following the airline’s privatization earlier that year, with his term set to conclude in September next year.
Air India is reportedly in advanced talks with potential candidates, with a significant meeting expected next week, according to sources familiar with the developments. The candidates are believed to be chief executives from full-service airlines, though specific names have not been revealed at this time.
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This leadership transition occurs amid operational challenges for the airline, including airspace restrictions due to the West Asia crisis, aircraft supply issues, and increasing costs. Reports referenced by HT suggest that the airline’s losses could reach ₹20,000 crore in FY2026, compounding difficulties following the June 12, 2025 crash of Air India Flight AI171 shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad, resulting in 241 fatalities.