Harpreet A. De Singh has made history by becoming the first woman to lead an Indian airline following her appointment as Chief Executive Officer of Alliance Air, the regional airline subsidiary of Air India.

Her appointment marks a significant milestone for India’s aviation industry and reflects the increasing presence of women in top corporate leadership roles. Harpreet began her aviation career in 1988 as the first woman pilot selected by Air India. Although health issues prevented her from flying, she went on to build an outstanding career in aviation management, including serving as Executive Director of Flight Safety at Air India and Chairman of the Aeronautical Society of India, Mumbai Branch.

As CEO, she aims to strengthen Alliance Air’s commercial performance by expanding its fleet, enhancing regional connectivity, and growing operations across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Her achievement is expected to inspire future generations of women leaders while reinforcing the importance of diversity, resilience, and visionary leadership in the global aviation industry.