IndiGo Names William “Willie” Walsh as New CEO

India’s largest airline, IndiGo, announced the appointment of William “Willie” Walsh as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a major leadership shift for the carrier. Walsh, a veteran aviation executive and the current Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), will take over the role pending regulatory approvals from India’s civil aviation authorities.

Walsh is widely recognized for his former leadership positions as CEO of British Airways and the International Airlines Group (IAG), and brings decades of global airline management experience. His tenure at IndiGo is expected to begin by early August 2026 after concluding his responsibilities at IATA.

The appointment follows the exit of former CEO Pieter Elbers and underscores IndiGo’s efforts to strengthen its operational and strategic position in the competitive global aviation market.