Former International Air Transport Association (IATA) chief Willie Walsh, took charge as the chief executive officer (CEO) of airline carrier IndiGo on Monday. IndiGo had announced his appointment as its new CEO in March 2026.

Rahul Bhatia, managing director of IndiGo, said, “As IndiGo enters its third decade and stands poised for the next phase of its growth, I am delighted to officially welcome Willie as the airline’s Chief Executive Officer. His extensive global experience in the aviation industry, combined with his operational and strategic expertise, will be instrumental as IndiGo accelerates its international expansion strategy”.

“I am confident that under his leadership, IndiGo will further strengthen its standing on the global aviation stage and increasingly contribute to continued development of the Indian aviation sector”, he added.

Bringing over four decades of global aviation leadership experience, Walsh will work closely with the Board and the management team to build on IndiGo’s operational foundations, the airline said.

A veteran aviation leader

That said, Walsh is regarded as one of the aviation industry's most influential executives, having held senior leadership roles across several of the world's biggest airlines.

His career began as a pilot with Aer Lingus before he became the airline's CEO in 2001. He later served as Chief Executive of British Airways from 2005 to 2011, led International Airlines Group (IAG) between 2011 and 2020, and most recently served as Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

At IndiGo, he will oversee the airline's overall management and strategic direction, with a focus on expanding its global network, strengthening commercial strategy, improving operational performance and enhancing the customer experience.

Meanwhile, Walsh's move to IndiGo also marks the end of his tenure at the IATA, where he served as Director General before stepping down this year. He has been succeeded by Saadia Zahidi, who became the global airline body's ninth Director General and its first woman to hold the role.

Source: Hindustan Times/Gulf News