Campbell Wilson Becomes the CEO and Managing Director of Air India

Tata Son's announced on Thursday that the airline has appointed Campbell Wilson as CEO and Managing Director of Air India. The Air India board has approved the appointment of Campbell Wilson subject to requisite regulatory approvals.

The appointment of another ex-pat CEO comes after former Turkish Airlines Chairman Mehmet Ilker Ayci declines a similar offer after an RSS-backed outfit declines the appointment due to past political ties.

Wilson, 50, has 26 years of experience on both full-service and low-cost carriers. He is the CEO of Scoot, a low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines. Tata Son's completed the acquisition of Air India in January and was looking for an executive to lead a major turnaround plan.

Singapore Airlines is also Tata Son's joint venture partner of another Indian airline, Vistara, but has not participated in Air India's bid. Analysts said Wilson's appointment was more likely for a future merger between Air India and Vistara.

Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran said he is delighted to welcome Wilson. Campbell Wilson was the founding CEO of Scoot and has also helped build a casual and irreverent culture at the budget carrier within a broader, more conservative organization, which is best known for its focus on the premium market. 

He said in a statement that Air India is aiming to be one of the best airlines in the world. He also said that he is excited to join Air India and Tata colleagues in achieving this goal of Air India.