Air India CEO Campbell Wilson Resigns Amid Losses and Regulatory Scrutiny

Campbell Wilson has resigned as the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India, according to reports on April 7, 2026. The resignation comes as the carrier faces persistent financial losses and increased regulatory scrutiny following a fatal aircraft crash in 2025 that resulted in 260 deaths.

Wilson, a New Zealand-born aviation executive and former Singapore Airlines veteran, was appointed in 2022 to lead the turnaround of the airline after years of decline under government ownership. While his term was originally scheduled to end in 2027, he is now serving a six-month notice period. A source with direct knowledge of the matter stated that Wilson plans to remain with the company until a successor is appointed.

Regulatory Scrutiny and Safety Lapses

The departure follows a period of heightened oversight from regulators. Air India has been reprimanded for several safety lapses, including the operation of an aircraft eight times without a valid airworthiness certificate. Regulators also found that the airline had been running planes without performing necessary checks on emergency equipment.

These operational failures coincide with ongoing challenges regarding aircraft delivery delays, which have complicated the airline’s efforts to modernize its fleet and improve service reliability.

Corporate Turnaround and Board Activity

Since taking the lead role in 2022, Wilson managed the initial stages of Air India’s restructuring. His tenure included an overhaul of the airline’s engineering department and the refurbishment of aircraft during widespread supply chain disruptions.

Despite these efforts, reports from Reuters in January 2026 indicated that Air India’s board had already begun scouting for a new CEO to replace Wilson. The news of his resignation was first reported by the Indian publication Mint late on April 6, 2026.

Industry Pressure and Competitive Landscape

The leadership change at Air India occurs as India’s largest carriers face a broader industry crisis. This volatility is driven by operational challenges within the country and the impact of the Middle East conflict on aviation.

The resignation follows a strategic move by Air India’s primary rival, IndiGo, which recently named aviation industry veteran Willie Walsh as its next CEO. This shift in leadership across the two largest Indian carriers suggests a period of transition as they attempt to navigate mounting financial and regulatory pressures.

Air India did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the resignation outside of regular business hours on April 7, 2026.