The head of the global airline body International Air Transport Association (IATA), Willie Walsh, is to step down and become chief executive of India’s largest low-cost carrier.
InterGlobe Aviation, which operates IndiGo, said Mr Walsh would take up the role by early August, subject to regulatory approval.
His tenure at IATA will end on 31 July 2026, with the company expecting him to join IndiGo no later than 3 August.
Veteran aviation leader
Mr Walsh has led IATA since April 2021, representing airlines globally during a period of recovery following the Covid-19 pandemic.
Before that, he held senior leadership roles across the industry, including as chief executive of British Airwaysand later of International Airlines Group (IAG), which owns airlines including Aer Lingus, Iberia and Vueling.
He is widely known within the industry for his direct approach, particularly during labour disputes and in his criticism of government aviation policies during the pandemic.
IndiGo expansion plans
IndiGo’s chairman, Vikram Singh Mehta, said Mr Walsh’s appointment marked a significant moment for the airline.
“He is an exceptional global aviation leader with a strong track record across multiple airlines,” he said.
“His experience in managing large-scale operations and navigating complex markets makes him well placed to lead IndiGo through its next phase of growth.”
IndiGo operates in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets and has been expanding its international network alongside its dominant domestic position.
The appointment signals the airline’s ambition to strengthen its global presence as competition intensifies across the sector.