Air India Appoints Pradeep Singh Kharola as Executive Advisor to Chairman

Air India has appointed former Civil Aviation Secretary and former Air India Chairman & Managing Director, Pradeep Singh Kharola, as Executive Advisor to Chairman N. Chandrasekaran. The appointment comes at a crucial juncture for the Tata Group-owned airline as it pursues an ambitious transformation programme, integrates multiple airline entities and seeks to strengthen operational performance amid intensifying competition in the Indian aviation market. Kharola will work closely with the chairman on strategic initiatives and provide guidance on key operational and regulatory matters.

A 1985-batch IAS officer of the Karnataka cadre, Kharola brings extensive experience across aviation, infrastructure and public administration. During his tenure as Civil Aviation Secretary, he played a key role in shaping aviation policy and overseeing major sectoral reforms. He also served as Chairman and Managing Director of Air India prior to its privatisation and has held leadership positions at organizations including the Airports Authority of India and Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation. His familiarity with Air India’s legacy operations and the broader aviation ecosystem is expected to provide valuable institutional knowledge as the airline continues its modernization efforts.

The appointment is being viewed as a significant addition to Air India’s leadership structure at a time when the carrier is expanding its fleet, enhancing customer experience and addressing operational challenges. Industry observers note that Kharola’s experience in managing complex organizations and navigating government and regulatory frameworks could help support Air India’s long-term growth plans. The move also reflects the Tata Group’s emphasis on strengthening governance and leadership capabilities as it seeks to position Air India as a globally competitive full-service airline.