IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has appointed aviation veteran Willie Walsh as its new Chief Executive Officer, signalling a decisive leadership shift following recent operational disruptions.

Currently serving as Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Walsh will assume his new role subject to regulatory approvals. His tenure at IATA concludes on 31 July, and he is expected to join IndiGo by early August.

Walsh becomes the third foreign CEO of IndiGo since its inception in 2006. His appointment follows the abrupt resignation of Pieter Elbers.

The leadership transition also coincides with broader organisational changes, including the recent appointment of Aloke Singh as Chief Strategy Officer.

Approved by the board of parent company InterGlobe Aviation, the move reflects IndiGo’s focus on strengthening leadership and navigating future growth in a competitive aviation landscape.