Air India appoints new CEO

New Delhi: Tata Sons have announced the appointment of former Turkish Airlines head Ilker Ayci as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director of Air India, in what the company says will be a "new era" in the airline's history. The appointment is slated for regulatory approvals according to the official release from Tata Sons.

"Ilker is an aviation industry leader who led Turkish Airlines to its current success during his tenure there. We are delighted to welcome Ilker to the Tata Group where he would lead Air India into the new era," said Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran on Tuesday.

"The Air India Board met to consider the candidature of Mr Ayci. Mr Chandrasekaran was a special invitee to this board meeting," the release added. He will assume his responsibilities on or before April 1, 2022, Tata Sons said.

Ayci was quoted as saying that he was delighted by the apointment and that he was honoured to accept the privilege of leading such an "iconic airline".

"Working closely with my colleagues at Air India and the leadership of the Tata Group, we will utilize the strong heritage of Air India to make it one of the best airlines in the world with a uniquely superior flying experience that reflects Indian warmth and hospitality," he said.

The Tata group officially took over the ailing airlines From the government of India on January 27, officially incorporating Air India, Air India Express, and AI SATS. Air India is India's flag carrier and premier full-service airline. Air India Express is a low-cost carrier. AI SATS provides a comprehensive suite of ground handling and cargo handling services.

Tata Sons won an ₹18,000 crore bid for Air India and currently owns a 100% stake in Air India,100% in its subsidiary Air India Express and 50% in the joint venture Air India SATS.