Air India has undergone a massive transformation in its senior leadership team. The Civil Aviation Secretary, Pradeep Singh Kharola, has been appointed as the Executive Advisor, reporting to the Air India Chairman N. Chandrasekaran. In addition, he is also part of the management committee of Air India.

The transformation occurred via an internal email. Kharola assumes his role as the Executive Advisor from today itself. He has previously served as the Chairman and Managing Director of Air India for more than two years. This happened while the airline was owned by the government. Air India has been acquired by the Tata Group in January 2022. There are many challenges and losses for the airline. The CEO and MD of Air India, Campbell Wilson, has stepped down from his position.

Kharola is no stranger to Air India; he served as Chairman and Managing Director from 2017 to 2019 before becoming the Civil Aviation Secretary. In that role, he was deeply involved in the airline's privatization process. In the internal communication, Wilson described Kharola's experience as invaluable, noting that it would ensure a smooth leadership transition for the incoming CEO.

Even after the Tata Group's acquisition, Air India continues to face significant hurdles. The airline is suffering heavy financial losses, and the resignation of CEO Wilson presents another major challenge. The company is in need of new leadership, and under these circumstances, Kharola's experience is considered crucial.

In recent weeks, Air India has implemented several cost-saving measures, including the introduction of "no-meal" fares. The airline has also temporarily reduced its flight network. Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran has been chairing Air India's board of directors since the privatization. These measures have been taken to bring financial stability to the airline.