air india: Tata Sons set to announce a new CEO for Air India soon

Tata Sons will soon announce a new CEO for Air India to replace Turkish expat Ilker Ayci who resigned before taking charge next month in the wake of controversies regarding his appointment. The holding company has finalised the new appointee after holding discussions in the last few days, officials said. Tata Sons is keen that the new CEO take charge of Air India as soon as possible and tackle the operational challenges.

The appointment of the group’s first choice had hit turbulent weather over government approvals and security clearances. Egon Zhender, Tata group’s headhunter had shortlisted a couple of candidates for the CEO post including that of Ilker Ayci. “The group went back to the list of other equally qualified candidates for a replacement to Ayci. They are keen on not wasting more time on the appointment. The board and chairman will be announced shortly after the CEO announcement,” said an official close to the development.

The new board of Air India also will be announced after the appointment of the CEO, it is learnt. Tata Sons did not comment. Former British Airways CEO Alex Cruz — likely to be Air India CEO — has been speculated to have been approached for the role. However, there is no confirmation on the same.

The Tata group now plans to expand Air India’s network, modernise its fleet, spruce up its customer service and make it the world’s most technologically advanced airline, said group chairman N Chandrasekaran recently while addressing Air India employees. Improving Air India’s basic service standards, on-time performance, issues related to passenger complaints and customer call centres will be priority in the coming months for the group.

Upgrading the airline’s fleet to expand both domestic and international network will be the new CEO’s focus, officials said.

Tata Group won a bid to buy 100% stake in Air India and its low-cost international subsidiary Air India Express, and 50% stake in ground handling company Air India Singapore Airport Terminal Services. Legal experts say large companies usually always ensure a check on the political connections of candidates for a top role.