As he prepares to step down later this year, Air India’s outgoing CEO and Managing Director, Campbell Wilson, said the airline has successfully rebuilt its foundations over the past 4 years, but delays in aircraft deliveries and supply chain disruptions have slowed its growth and transformation plans.
In an interview with a news agency, Wilson described his tenure as “fantastic” and “incredible”, highlighting major milestones including cultural transformation, the merger of 4 airlines, rebranding efforts and product upgrades.
Reflecting on Air India’s turnaround journey, Wilson said, “There is a natural transition point with the building of the foundation (of the airline) in the rapid expansion. It is a natural point to hand off.”
However, he expressed disappointment over aircraft manufacturers and suppliers failing to meet contractual commitments. “It was a shame that the aircraft that Air India had ordered were not delivered on schedule,” Wilson said, noting that the delays significantly impacted fleet modernisation, growth plans and product enhancements.
He also pointed to supply chain bottlenecks, particularly involving premium cabin seats, which have delayed the retrofit programme for existing wide-body aircraft by around 2 years.
“Had the new aircraft been delivered and the retrofits been able to be done as people had contractually committed to us, the remaining part of Air India’s transformation would have been much more advanced. So, that’s a regret. But that was completely outside our control,” he said.
Looking ahead, Wilson said the airline’s next phase will focus on expansion, supported by the expected delivery of a large portion of its order book of 670 aircraft.
Discussing his future plans, Wilson ruled out taking on another airline leadership role. “I’m going to step back from full-time executive work, and (look at) advisory board (role), adjunct lecturing that sort of thing,” he said.
“I think I have learned a lot over my 30 years in aviation in different countries, different companies, to turn around startup transformation, merger, and privatisation.”
“And I think I’d like to share a little bit with the up-and-coming generations, including students, to try and excite them about taking a similar path because I have thoroughly enjoyed it myself,” Wilson added.
Wilson, who joined Air India in May 2022 after serving as CEO of Scoot, will remain in his role until a successor is appointed. A committee formed by Air India is currently searching for the airline’s next chief executive.
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