Air India’s long-running turnaround is nearing the finish line, according to CEO and managing director Campbell Wilson. He recently said the airline has completed most of the heavy lifting and is now focused on execution and fine-tuning.
Table of Contents
“The Heavy Lifting Is Done”
Speaking after the inauguration of Air India’s new lounge at Delhi airport, Wilson described the airline’s position using a cricket analogy. He said the transformation feels like the morning of the fifth day of a Test match, where the toughest phase is already behind them. Air India was privatised in January 2022, and Wilson believes the most demanding part of fixing the airline is now complete.
Fleet Refits Are the Main Focus Now
The CEO explained that much of the remaining work is mechanical rather than strategic. Aircraft refits are now at the centre of the effort. Design, certification, and planning have already been wrapped up. What remains is the physical process of manufacturing, delivering, and installing new seats across the fleet.
ALSO READ: Air India Buys 470 New Airplanes
Air India is currently upgrading around 190 aircraft. Earlier this year, the airline received its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner since privatisation. Under its Vihaan.AI five-year transformation plan, there are 22 separate work streams covering different aircraft types and operations. Most of these are either finished or are nearing completion.
Around 20 aircraft are expected to be delivered or refurbished this year, which Wilson said will make the transformation far more visible to passengers.
From Rapid Change to Refinement
According to Wilson, Air India has moved past a phase of rapid fixes and is now entering a stage focused on consistency and reinforcement. The airline is no longer trying to overhaul everything at once. Instead, the emphasis is on getting the details right and improving reliability across the operation.
External Challenges Still Remain
While progress has been strong, Wilson acknowledged that the airline continues to face external pressures. He said it was difficult to comment on profitability due to factors outside the airline’s control. These include airspace closures, geopolitical tensions, policy changes in international markets, and visa restrictions, many of which have hit in quick succession.
ALSO READ: Fuel Control Switch Malfunction: Air India’s Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner Grounded!
Industry sources suggest Air India is now revising its profitability roadmap, with breakeven likely still three to four years away as it works through these challenges.
What This Means for Passengers
For travellers, the message from Air India’s leadership is clear. The transformation plan is largely in place, and the airline is now focused on delivering consistent improvements. More refurbished aircraft, better onboard products, and a smoother experience are expected as the airline moves into the final phase of its turnaround.
