The disaster, the deadliest aviation accident worldwide in the past decade, prompted regulators to raise concerns about the airline’s operations, citing issues ranging from aircraft being flown without proper emergency equipment checks, delays in engine part replacements, and maintenance record discrepancies, to lapses in managing crew fatigue.
Wilson, a New Zealand-born executive, assumed the role of CEO and managing director of Air India in July 2022, after a 26-year tenure at Singapore Airlines, where he held senior positions across both the full-service carrier and its low-cost subsidiary, Scoot. While his contract is slated to run until mid-2027, reports suggest he may be replaced earlier.
According to India’s Economic Times, Air India chairman N. Chandrasekaran, who also chairs Tata Group—the airline’s majority owner—has held discussions with CEOs from leading UK- and U.S.-based international carriers as potential successors. Singapore Airlines, which retains a 25% stake in Air India, is also involved in the board-level deliberations.
Tata Group reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with Wilson’s performance last year, despite giving him broad authority to address the airline’s operational and financial challenges following its privatisation in 2022. One source told Reuters that Tata had expected a faster turnaround after acquiring the formerly state-run carrier, which had long struggled with inefficiency and losses.
Leadership changes may also extend to Air India Express, the group’s low-cost arm, according to the Economic Times.
Since its privatisation, Tata Group has invested heavily in modernising Air India’s fleet and expanding its route network. However, the airline has faced delays in aircraft deliveries and refurbishments, alongside operational and safety issues that continue to challenge its turnaround.
Requests for comment from Tata Group, Singapore Airlines, Air India, and Wilson were not immediately answered.