The carrier disclosed on Wednesday, February 11, that Iyer will step down after what it described as five successful years, choosing to begin a new chapter in his professional journey. He will remain with the airline through April 30, 2026, working closely with the leadership team to ensure a smooth and structured transition.
Co-founder and Chief Information Officer, Anand Srinivasan, will assume the role of Chief Commercial Officer effective May 1.
Leadership Changes Continue
Iyer’s departure follows the exit of Neelu Khatri, Co-Founder and Senior Vice President – International Operations, who resigned last year to pursue other professional interests. Khatri was instrumental in launching Akasa’s international operations and played a foundational role in shaping its early growth trajectory.
Commenting on Iyer’s resignation, Akasa Air Chief Executive Officer Vinay Dube credited him with shaping the airline’s commercial strategy.
“Praveen has played a key role in defining Akasa’s commercial vision and driving the airline’s growth. He has created a strong commercial team, developed future leaders, and built partnerships that help us expand our network and improve our revenue strategies,” Dube said.
On the incoming CCO, Dube noted that Srinivasan brings more than 25 years of experience across Indian and international markets, with expertise spanning commercial operations and aviation technology.
The leadership reshuffle also follows other notable departures within the organisation. In January 2026, Bishnupriya Narayan, Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications and CSR, left to join L&T Realty after more than three years with the airline. Other exits include Rishabh Dev, Head of Long-Term Operations, Strategy, Excellence, and Planning; Amol Mane, Vice-President of Aircraft Acquisition and Leasing; and Vineet Mishra, Deputy General Manager – Catering.
Expansion Plans Gain Momentum
The management changes come as Akasa Air accelerates expansion after experiencing aircraft delivery delays linked to Boeing’s supply constraints. The airline has inducted three aircraft so far this year and plans to add approximately 12 more before year-end.
Currently operating a fleet of 33 Boeing 737 Max aircraft, Akasa Air serves 32 destinations. The airline aims to grow its fleet to 45 aircraft by the end of the year and has resumed pilot recruitment to support its expansion drive.
Despite the recent wave of executive departures, Akasa Air appears focused on consolidating its leadership structure while pushing forward with fleet growth and network expansion in India’s highly competitive aviation market.