Air India appoints former Civil Aviation Secretary and ex-Chairman & Managing Director, Pradeep Singh Kharola, as Executive Advisor to Chairman N. Chandrasekaran. The appointment comes at a significant juncture for the Tata Group-owned airline as it advances its transformation strategy and prepares for a leadership transition.
In his new role, Kharola will serve as a full member of Air India’s Management Committee and will work closely with the Chairman on strategic and operational matters. His extensive experience in aviation policy, airport management, and airline operations is expected to strengthen the airline’s ongoing growth and transformation efforts.
Kharola is no stranger to Air India, having previously served as the airline’s Chairman and Managing Director between 2017 and 2019. He later went on to become Secretary in the Ministry of Civil Aviation, where he played a pivotal role in overseeing major reforms and initiatives within India’s aviation sector, including the privatization process that eventually led to Air India’s acquisition by the Tata Group.
The appointment comes as Air India continues its ambitious modernization programme, which includes fleet expansion, network growth, technology upgrades, and service enhancements. Kharola’s return is expected to provide valuable continuity and guidance as the airline enters its next phase of transformation and leadership succession.
Industry observers view the move as a strategic step by the Tata Group to leverage Kharola’s deep institutional knowledge and regulatory expertise while ensuring a smooth transition during a critical period for India’s flagship carrier.
