Former Air India CMD Pradeep Singh Kharola Returns to Air India as Executive Director to Chairman

Air India has brought back former Chairman and Managing Director Pradeep Singh Kharola in a senior leadership role, reinforcing its management team at a crucial stage of the airline’s transformation journey.

Kharola has been appointed Executive Director to the Chairman, marking a return to the airline he previously led between 2017 and 2019 under government ownership. Following his tenure at Air India, he served as Secretary in the Ministry of Civil Aviation and was closely associated with the airline’s privatization process before retiring from government service.

His appointment comes as Air India prepares for a significant leadership transition, with current CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson expected to step down in the coming months. Kharola’s deep understanding of aviation policy, airline operations, and the broader industry landscape is expected to provide valuable continuity during this period.

According to reports, Kharola will also join Air India’s Management Committee, placing him at the center of strategic and operational decision-making. His role will involve working closely with Chairman N. Chandrasekaran and the leadership team as the airline continues its ambitious transformation programme.

Since returning to the Tata Group in 2022, Air India has undertaken a large-scale modernization effort involving fleet expansion, network growth, technology upgrades, and service improvements. The airline is also working to strengthen its competitive position in both domestic and international markets while integrating multiple businesses under a unified strategy.

Kharola’s return adds experienced leadership at a time when Air India is navigating operational expansion, leadership succession, and long-term transformation goals. His familiarity with the airline’s history and the broader aviation ecosystem is expected to play a key role in supporting the company’s next phase of growth and execution.