Who is Tewolde Gebremariam? Air Indias new CEO was reportedly chosen to head Pakistans PIA
The former Ethiopian Airlines chief was reportedly selected to lead PIA and was waiting for final security clearances before his appointment could be officially announced.
PTC News Desk: Air India's newly appointed CEO, Tewolde Gebremariam, was almost set to become the head of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) before joining the Tata Group-owned airline.
The former Ethiopian Airlines chief was reportedly selected to lead PIA and was waiting for final security clearances before his appointment could be officially announced. Reports in July said he was the preferred choice to head the airline after its management was handed over to a consortium led by the Arif Habib Group.
Tewolde was expected to lead PIA's revival after its privatisation by improving its fleet, expanding its route network and introducing operational reforms. However, before he could take over, Air India appointed him as its CEO and Managing Director after a global search for a leader with experience in transforming large airlines, improving operations, maintaining high safety standards and driving profitable growth.
Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran said Tewolde's success in building Ethiopian Airlines into one of the world's most efficient and profitable airline groups made him the right person to lead Air India's next phase of growth. He also praised Tewolde's expertise in operations, safety and developing major aviation hubs.
Who is Tewolde Gebremariam?
Tewolde served as the CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group from 2011 until his retirement in March 2022.
During his leadership, Ethiopian Airlines became Africa's largest airline group. The airline expanded its fleet, added more international destinations, strengthened its aircraft maintenance business and developed Addis Ababa into one of Africa's leading aviation hubs. The airline also improved its profitability and global reputation during his tenure.
After spending nearly 40 years with Ethiopian Airlines, Tewolde stepped down in 2022 due to health reasons.
Speaking after his appointment, Tewolde said it was a "profound honour" to lead Air India at an important stage in the airline's transformation under the Tata Group.