Former Air India CMD Pradeep Singh Kharola returns to Air India as Executive Director to Chairman, says airline sources
New Delhi, June 23
Former Air India Chairman and Managing Director and former Civil Aviation Secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola has returned to Air India with immediate effect as Executive Director to the Chairman, according to sources in the airline.
Kharola previously served as Chairman and Managing Director of Air India from 2017 to 2019, when the airline was under government ownership. He later served as Secretary in the Ministry of Civil Aviation and was associated with the airline's privatisation process.
Air India was fully privatised in 2022, with the Tata Group winning the bid for the airline. The privatisation of Air India was first approved in 2017, with the government putting out an Expression of Interest (EOI) in 2018.
His appointment comes at a time when Air India is preparing for a leadership transition, following an announcement by Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Campbell Wilson that he will step down in the coming months.
Recently, Air India announced a strategic partnership with the digital travel platform Booking.com, with the aim of delivering a more seamless and rewarding travel booking experience.
"Customers can now access a vast array of global accommodations via a dedicated co-branded platform on the Air India website and mobile app, powered by Booking.com, along with exclusive benefits and loyalty rewards for Maharaja Club members," the airline said in a statement.
"Our partnership with Booking.com is another step in our efforts to build a comprehensive travel ecosystem for our customers. By combining Air India's growing global network with Booking.com's vast portfolio, we are offering our guests greater convenience, choice and added value across journeys," said Abhijit Menon, Divisional Vice President & Head of Revenue Management, Air India.Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director and Vice President, Asia Pacific at Booking.com, said "As travellers increasingly seek integrated, digital-first travel experiences, we are excited to partner with Air India. This collaboration reflects our Connected Trip vision of making travel planning simpler and more seamless. By combining our diverse global accommodation inventory with Air India's growing international network, we are helping to make it easier for travellers to book their flights and stay in one place. This partnership also reinforces our commitment to India, delivering greater value, rewarding loyalty and creating a more seamless, end-to-end travel experience."
According to Air India, Industry data indicates that travellers increasingly prefer planning multiple parts of their journey through a single platform. Research shows that leisure travellers opt for bundled travel offerings combining flights, accommodation or other services.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While Kharola's experience is valuable, I hope this isn't a step backwards. Air India needs fresh thinking under Tata's ownership, not just recycled bureaucracy from the government era. The new Pune-Amritsar route is a smart move though - finally connecting two culturally rich cities directly! 🌟
As someone who flies Air India regularly, I'm cautiously optimistic. The airline has improved since Tata took over but still faces challenges with on-time performance and customer service. Kharola's government connections might help with regulatory issues, but I want to see visible changes for passengers. The Amritsar-Pune route is a good addition though.
Great to see Air India focusing on domestic connectivity! The Pune-Amritsar direct flight will be a blessing for students and business travellers. Both cities have growing economies and this route was long overdue. Also, Kharola's return brings stability - he knows the airline's DNA from the inside out. 👏
Not convinced about this appointment. The old guard from the government era couldn't save Air India from losses. Tatas should have brought in someone with a private sector mindset, not a bureaucrat. That said, the new Amritsar route is welcome - finally our Sikh brethren in Pune have easier access to the Golden Temple. 🙏
Kharola's deep understanding of Civil Aviation Ministry protocols will be crucial as Air India navigates regulatory approvals. His experience with the privatization process gives him unique insight. Meanwhile, 105 weekly flights from Pune is impressive - the city is becoming a major aviation hub. Smart moves by Air India Express!
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