The Board of IndiGo on Tuesday announced former British Airways chief William Walsh as its Chief Executive Officer. Walsh succeeds Pieter Elbers, who resigned following the airline’s major operational meltdown in December last year.
Walsh, who is currently the Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), is expected to join on August 3, 2026.
Popularly known as Willie, Walsh was formerly the CEO of British Airways and International Airlines Group, a holding company which owns Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Level and Vueling.
Reacting to his appointment, Walsh said that he is delighted to have the opportunity to lead IndiGo.
“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,” he said.
Noting the rapidly evolving aviation landscape, Walsh asserted that IndiGo is “extremely well-positioned” to be at the forefront of this change.
“I look forward to partnering with colleagues across the organisation to build a culture of excellence, innovation, collaboration and sustainable value for all stakeholders,” he said.
Welcoming Walsh, IndiGo Chairman Vikram Singh Mehta said he is thrilled to have Willie at the helm of IndiGo, describing him as an “exceptional global aviation leader with a stellar track record of outstanding leadership across several airlines.”
Mehta hoped Walsh’s “appointment will mark a new chapter for IndiGo, as it continues its journey in one of the fastest growing aviation markets in the world.”
The development comes days after CEO Pieter Elbers abruptly tendered his resignation. During Elbers’ tenure, the airline plunged into a major operational crisis, marked by widespread disruptions in its services, leading to cancellations of thousands of flights.