Nikhil Ravishankar to Become First Indian-Origin CEO of Air New Zealand

Deepanshu Sharma Image Source: Google Images

Nikhil Ravishankar is set to become the CEO of Air New Zealand on October 20, 2025 — the first Indian-origin leader of the airline

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Currently serving as Chief Digital Officer, Ravishankar will succeed Greg Foran as CEO, bringing digital vision and global experience to the role

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The announcement sparked criticism online. Some platforms had to disable comments due to backlash, though many support the decision

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Board Chair Dame Therese Walsh praised Ravishankar’s modern leadership, digital literacy, and commitment to New Zealand values

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“I’m thrilled to lead a company with such a deep legacy and exciting future,” Ravishankar said. “It’s a people business rooted in Aotearoa.”

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With immense challenges in aviation ahead, Air New Zealand is betting on bold, fresh leadership grounded in community and innovation

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Ravishankar’s appointment is a landmark moment — a win for diversity, digital transformation, and forward-thinking in global aviation

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