Air India's foundations rebuilt, but aircraft delivery delays hurt growth plans: Campbell Wilson

Air India's outgoing CEO and MD Campbell Wilson said the airline has rebuilt its foundations over the past four years, but delays in aircraft deliveries and supply chain constraints have slowed its transformation and growth plans, according to a PTI report.

In an interview with PTI, Wilson, who will step down later this year, described his tenure at the airline as "fantastic" and "incredible", citing efforts ranging from cultural transformation and the merger of four airlines to rebranding 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."


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However, he expressed disappointment over the failure of aircraft manufacturers and suppliers to meet contractual commitments.

"It was a shame that the aircraft that Air India had ordered were not delivered on schedule," Wilson said, adding that the delays had a significant impact on growth, product enhancement and fleet modernisation.

The airline chief also pointed to supply chain bottlenecks, particularly for premium cabin seats, which have pushed back the retrofit programme for existing wide-body aircraft by around two 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.

Wilson said the next phase for Air India would centre on expansion, with deliveries expected for a large part of the airline's order book of 670 aircraft.

Discussing his future plans, Wilson ruled out taking 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."

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"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 current position until a successor is appointed. A committee constituted by Air India is currently searching for the next chief executive.

(With inputs from agencies)