Air India plans larger widebody fleet under new CEO

Dhaka: Air India is considering expanding its widebody aircraft orderbook as part of a long-term growth strategy, with new CEO Tewolde Gebremariam identifying profitability and operational improvements as immediate priorities.

Speaking at the Aviation India 2026 summit in New Delhi on November 3, Gebremariam said the airline sees significant potential in long-haul markets and plans to strengthen its capacity to serve them. He described the carrier's transformation as a long-term process that could take 15 to 20 years.

The announcement comes as Air India faces financial and operational challenges despite substantial investment in fleet expansion since the Tata Group took ownership in 2021. Air India and its subsidiary Air India Express recorded combined net losses exceeding INR 220 billion (about USD 2.3 billion) in the fiscal year ended March 2026.

Gebremariam said his immediate focus would include returning the airline to profitability, adjusting its network to address disruptions caused by the closure of Pakistani airspace and improving connectivity.

He also highlighted the need for greater investment in infrastructure, workforce training and aircraft maintenance.

The CEO sees potential for India to develop into a major international aviation hub, with Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai serving as key gateways.

A former chief executive of Ethiopian Airlines, Gebremariam took charge of Air India in August 2026, succeeding Campbell Wilson. The airline currently operates a mixed fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, including A350s, 777s and 787s.