Air India human resources landscape is facing a critical test following the resignation of CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson on April 7, 2026.
As the airline navigates a complex leadership transition, Tata Sons Chairman N.Chandrasekaran has stepped in to anchor the 24,000-strong workforce, emphasizing resilience and disciplined execution.
The Morale Challenge Amid CEO Exit
Campbell Wilson’s departure comes during a pivotal phase of the Vihaan.AI transformation.
While the airline has hired over 17,000 employees since 2022 and halved the average age of its non-flying staff to 36, the transition has not been without friction.
The resignation follows a year of intense pressure, compounded by the tragic Ahmedabad crash in 2025 and ongoing regulatory scrutiny regarding crew fatigue.
To stabilize internal sentiment, Chairman Chandrasekaran addressed employees on April 10, urging them to “stay grounded in reality” and take external criticism objectively.
He highlighted that while the “mechanical integration” of four carriers into two is largely complete, the “cultural integration” remains a work in progress.
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Air India HR Policy Crackdown and Discipline
Adding to the turbulence, Air India’s HR department recently launched a major disciplinary sweep.
In March 2026, the airline flagged widespread misuse of its Employee Leisure Travel (ELT) policy.
Over 4,000 employees—nearly 16% of the workforce—are reportedly under investigation for violating free-ticket benefits, including selling complimentary passes or listing ineligible individuals.
This crackdown signals a decisive shift toward a “meritocratic model” and stricter accountability, moving away from the tenure-driven culture of the pre-privatization era.
Bridging the Leadership Gap
The HR department is currently managing significant vacancies.
Alongside the search for Wilson’s successor, the low-cost subsidiary Air India Express has been without a Managing Director since March.
To maintain momentum, the board has formed a specialized committee to identify a new leader capable of managing the next growth phase, which includes the delivery of nearly 600 new aircraft starting in 2027.
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About the Author
Sahiba Sharma
Contributing Writer