Air India makes steady progress despite global uncertainty: CEO Campbell Wilson

Air India CEO Campbell Wilson has stated that the airline is making consistent progress in its transformation efforts, even amidst a challenging global aviation environment characterized by geopolitical tensions, airspace disruptions, and fluctuating fuel prices. In a town hall with employees, Wilson highlighted the company's focus on long-term growth and investment in its fleet, products, and operations.

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Even amid these headwinds, Air India remains firmly focused on its fleet ambition, with 16 additional Boeing 787-8 aircraft planned for retrofit in 2027 and over 100 new aircraft scheduled to join the Air India Group over the next two years.

Despite global headwinds, Wilson confirmed that Air India remains committed to its fleet expansion plans. The airline intends to retrofit 16 additional Boeing 787-8 aircraft in 2027 and expects over 100 new aircraft to join the Air India Group within the next two years. The US$400 million legacy fleet retrofit program is progressing well, with narrowbody retrofits completed and widebody retrofits underway. Three retrofitted Boeing 787-8s have already entered service this year, with four more anticipated by year-end.

Wilson also announced that annual salary increments for all employees, including ground staff and cabin crew, will be implemented starting October 1, 2026. These increments were previously deferred due to the impact of the Middle East crisis. Revised pilot remuneration will also take effect on the same date.

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The increment cycle had been deferred earlier this year due to the impact of the Middle East crisis.

The airline anticipates an acceleration in its transformation momentum in 2027, with the planned retrofitting of 16 Boeing 787-8s and the induction of over 100 new aircraft. While acknowledging that the path to profitability continues to be a key focus and external volatility presents ongoing challenges, Wilson reiterated Air India's firm commitment to its long-term transformation strategy.

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While the path to profitability remains a key focus and external volatility continues to present challenges, Air India remains firmly committed to its long-term transformation strategy.