InterGlobe Aviation has appointed Willie Walsh as chief executive of IndiGo, representing a high-profile return to an operational airline role for the former British Airways and IAG chief.
Walsh, currently director general of the International Air Transport Association, will step down from the role on July 31, 2026 and is expected to join IndiGo by August 3, subject to regulatory approval.
The appointment comes after a period of disruption at IndiGo, following the departure of former chief executive Pieter Elbers earlier this year after operational issues led to widespread flight cancellations. The airline’s co-founder Rahul Bhatia had taken over the role on an interim basis.
Walsh brings decades of industry experience, having served as chief executive of Aer Lingus between 2000 and 2005, British Airways from 2005 to 2011, and International Airlines Group from 2011 to 2020, before taking the helm at IATA.
“The airline has a strong foundation, a compelling vision and an exceptional reputation. What stands out most to me are its people, their passion, professionalism and commitment,” said Mr Walsh. “The aviation landscape is evolving rapidly, and IndiGo is extremely well-positioned to be at the forefront of this change.”
IndiGo said Walsh would be responsible for overall management and strategic direction, including improving operational performance, expanding the network and strengthening its commercial strategy.
IndiGo Chairman Vikram Singh Mehta said Walsh’s experience in managing large-scale airline operations and navigating complex markets would support IndiGo’s next phase of growth in a rapidly evolving aviation sector.
“As we enter a new phase of transformation and growth, I am delighted to welcome Willie to IndiGo, said
Bhatia, Managing Director at IndiGo. “He is an iconic and accomplished aviation leader and brings a rare combination of global perspective, operational expertise of having built strong customer-focused airlines, deep industry experience and a values driven leadership, making him exceptionally suited to lead IndiGo at this pivotal cusp of growth.”
The airline is India’s largest carrier, and among the fastest growing airlines in the world, accounting for nearly two-thirds of domestic air travel. It operates a fleet of more than 400 aircraft and runs over 2,200 daily flights across more than 95 domestic and 40 international destinations, carrying 124m passengers in 2025.